Inglis will be forced to reshuffle its plans for The Everest after their original pick, Skybird, was ruled out through injury.

The Lightning Stakes winner had been under a cloud since finishing unplaced and pulling up lame in last week’s Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley. Trainer Mitch Freedman confirmed on Wednesday that she wouldn’t recover in time for the $20 million feature at Randwick.

“Trainer @Freedmanmitch today advised that Skybird will not be ready in time to contest The Everest this year as a result of the setback sustained in the Manikato Stakes,” Inglis posted on X.

“While it is disappointing not to have Skybird represent Inglis in the race, the decision has been made in the best interests of the mare.

“Inglis will now reassess plans for our slot.”

This is not the first time Inglis has been in this situation, having lost Snapdancer in 2022 due to a hoof problem before drafting in Private Eye, who finished second to Giga Kick.

Skybird’s absence means four slots remain unfilled, with Godolphin, Mulberry Racing and Coolmore also yet to reveal their selections for the October 18 edition of The Everest.

Punters weighing up a bet on The Everest can compare odds and offers across Australia’s best betting sites and leading online bookmakers.