Trainer Robbie Griffiths is hoping the scratching gods are on his side as he attempts to gain a start for promising galloper Autumn Storm in Wednesday’s Stow Storage Solutions Handicap (1400m) at Sandown.

The son of The Autumn Sun sits as third emergency for the race and needs one more horse to come out of the 16-horse lineup to take his place in the field.

Set to be ridden by Jye McNeil, Autumn Storm posted a career-best Racing and Sports rating of 94 when finishing second to Son Of Solly at Moonee Valley last December. Griffiths has his sights set on an 1800m race in the coming weeks before stretching to 2000m at Flemington.

“We’re keen to get him going this week to stay on track for our planned preparation,” Griffiths told RSN. “We skipped Bendigo due to the wide draw and wet conditions, but we’ve found ourselves in a similar scenario here.”

The gelding initially drew barrier 18, which has now become 16 following two withdrawals. “He’s not likely to jump out and lead, he’s more of a horse you’ll want to watch third-up at Flemington over 2000m,” Griffiths said. “He’s in good shape and we’re hopeful.”

Griffiths also lines up Divino Cavallo in the MRC Membership Feel The Thrill Handicap (1300m), backing up from a solid win at Seymour on June 10 where she handled the Soft 5 track impressively.

“I wasn’t sure how she’d handle the ground last time, but she relished it,” Griffiths said. “Given the conditions expected at Sandown, it gives me confidence she’ll perform well again.”

The Sandown Lakeside surface was rated a Soft 6 on Tuesday with light rain forecast in the lead-up to the midweek meeting.

Betting markets for the Stow Storage Solutions Handicap and MRC Membership Feel The Thrill Handicap are now live at Australia’s top bookies. Check the best options at justhorseracing.com.au.