Kris Lees expects to finalise his team for the $1 million The Gong within the next day, but one thing is certain — Tavi Time will take his place despite drawing wide.

The reliable galloper has come up with barrier 16, while stablemate Loch Eagle has drawn 18 and also holds an entry for the Mooloolaba Cup (1600m) at the Sunshine Coast.

Lees will consider both options before making a decision on Loch Eagle, but says Tavi Time is locked in for the Group 3 Gong (1600m) and remains a strong winning prospect if things fall into place.

“Awkward gates, but there is a forecast for a bit of rain, so you never know with Kembla,” Lees said.

“It has always been the plan, the Big Dance into this race with Tavi Time.

“He has come on well, and he didn’t have a great deal of luck in the Big Dance.”

Tavi Time missed the field for the Gong last year and instead finished third in the 1600m consolation, but after landing the Summer Cup and Scone Cup over the past year, he is assured of a start this time around.

He has been competitive in all three runs this spring, including his latest effort in the Big Dance (1600m) where he finished just over three lengths from Gringotts after finding traffic late.

Lees says Tavi Time’s effectiveness on Saturday will hinge on race shape and gaining clear air at the right time.

“I’d suggest tempo and a nice, smooth run,” he said.

“Big fields, that doesn’t always happen, but if he can get the right set-up, he is always effective.”

Lord Of Biscay also accepted for The Gong but failed to gain a start and will instead contest the benchmark 88 support race — mirroring Tavi Time’s situation last season.

He finished just ahead of Tavi Time in the Big Dance and Lees expects him to be highly competitive from barrier five.

“He didn’t make the field for the Gong, but that race looks a nice option for him,” Lees said.

“He’s got a nice gate, and he has been knocking on the door for a win.”