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Punters who took Francesca Cumani’s Melbourne Cup advice at $10 are sitting comfortably, with Hopewell Rock now the clear favourite in the betting.

Point Of Law and Trustyourinstinct occupied the top two spots on Monday afternoon, but sustained support drove the international runner into outright favouritism by Tuesday. The move was strengthened by several sizeable wagers placed at the Call of the Card.

Cumani backed Hopewell Rock during Nine’s coverage on Monday, highlighting his narrow second-place finish in the Ebor Handicap as a key form reference.

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“He ran second in the Ebor Handicap, which has been a pretty good form reference. He probably should have won it if not for the jockey dropping his whip,” she said.

“He’s a very dependable, solid horse with a good temperament and will take some stopping.”

Cumani also named Goodie Two Shoes, Mr Monaco, Middle Earth, James J Braddock and Trustyourinstinct among the leading Melbourne Cup chances.