Darryl Sherer
Trainer Mick Price will rely on Bassett as his sole representative in the Listed Bel Esprit Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield after withdrawing early favourite Secret Agenda.
Price said he was disappointed with Bassett's performance when fourth over 1100m at Bendigo on April 7 which followed a first-up eighth to Whispering Brook at Moonee Valley on March 16.
Price has opted to add blinkers to Bassett's gear on Saturday.
"He ranged up to win at Bendigo but I thought he was very disappointing," Price said.
"He only got beaten 1.8 (lengths) and I thought here's a win, but he ducked in under pressure.
"I'm not sure what that was about but I can't find anything wrong with him so he'll go forward on Saturday.
"He's hard, fit, and has the blinkers on."
Bassett hasn't been successful since winning the Hareeba Stakes at Mornington last year before running two respectable unplaced races at Morphettville.
"Mark Zahra rode him in the Goodwood last year and while he drew out he had his chance," Price said.
"He's a nice horse that has won A$400,000, but he's a little horse that's a 96 rater who gets up in the weights a bit, so I need a bit of sympathy from (handicapper) Greg Carpenter." -AAP