Godolphin’s Pinatubo put himself in the mix for an appearance at Royal Ascot when maintaining his unbeaten record in the Investec Woodcote EBF Stakes at Epsom.

Having made a winning debut at Wolverhampton earlier in the month, the Charlie Appleby-trained Shamardal colt backed that up in coming off a scorching pace set by Misty Grey to claim the six-furlong event.

Moving on inside the final furlong, the even-money favourite had more than enough in hand to keep the running-on Oh Purple Reign at bay by a length and a half.

Appleby said: “It was a pleasing performance. I said to James (Doyle) if you can hang on to their coat tails early doors I was confident he was going to come home strong.

“It was a little bit concerning when Mark’s (Johnston, Misty Grey) had gone off as quick as they had and got that extended lead, but once he came down the hill and James got him levelled out I was pretty confident he was going to do his best work towards the finish.

“As to whether he is a Coventry horse, let’s get him back and speak to Sheikh Mohammed, then let’s make a call on whether he joins the team. I wouldn’t rule it out, for sure.

“He is a horse that will take a bit of experience to the Coventry and a nice level of form to the table.”

Winner of a competitive handicap at York two weeks ago, Pinatubo led inside the final furlong and withstood the strong challenge of Marie’s Diamond by a neck.

Appleby added: “At this present time I am thinking about the Jersey at Royal Ascot. I don’t think we will be stepping him up in trip so the seven furlongs of the Jersey is probably the most logical thing to do at the moment.

“He’s a fun horse to have around – he travels and he’s got a gear change, which is nice to see.”

Provided by Press Association Sport