Master warms up for Stars showdown

Aidan O'Brien's Mastercraftsman warmed up for a clash with Sea The Stars at York next month with a pleasing spin after racing at Tipperary.The Irish 2000 Guineas and St James's Palace Stakes winner was ridden by Johnny Murtagh as he covered a mile and a quarter with his regular galloping companion, Grand Ducal.He is now set to step up to a similar distance for the Juddmonte International on August 18 in what would be the clash of the season against Sea The Stars, winner of three Group Ones already this season.O'Brien said: "Johnny was very happy with him. He's had his summer break and the Juddmonte is the plan now."Murtagh added: "I was very happy. He's in great form and is fresh and well. The conditions were pretty bad but we quickened up well in the straight."