Mick Price is looking to get a true guide on where Zambardo sits among Australia’s middle-distance ranks, and he’ll find out on Saturday when the gelding takes on Horse of the Year Via Sistina in the Champions Stakes (2000m) at Flemington.

Zambardo had been expected to go around as favourite in a Benchmark 90 on Oaks Day, but Price, who trains in partnership with Michael Kent Jr, opted to bypass the softer option for a crack at Group 1 company.

“We can go back to a benchmark 90 any time,” Price said.

“This is his sixth run this prep and he’s had a very good prep. I wanted better horses in front of him.

“When he gets to the front, he tends to clock off. So we’ll ride him cold and let him finish late.”

Price understands the task at hand and the price Zambardo will go around at, but sees Saturday as a stepping stone.

“On the numbers, he’s entitled to his odds. But if he runs top three and raises his rating, it sets him up beautifully for the autumn,” he said.

“He’s a nice horse — this is his ‘chips in’ run this prep.”

Zambardo has been steadily rising through the grades this campaign, including a Benchmark 78 victory over 2000m at Caulfield after prior wins at Pakenham, Sale and Sandown.

Under weight-for-age conditions, he gives 1.5kg to Via Sistina, who arrives off her second straight Cox Plate victory and now holds more than $17.5 million in career earnings.

Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Jamie Melham will ride from barrier nine, drawn directly inside Via Sistina.

Golden Path, a stablemate who finished second in the Crystal Mile, also takes his place.

“He’s often found wanting at this level, but he’s fit and drawn well,” Price said.

“He’ll run honestly — and whatever happens, happens.”

If you’re having a bet in the Champions Stakes, compare bookies via the Australian betting sites list.