Godolphin has turned to the northern hemisphere to secure a temporary replacement for jockey James McDonald.
James McDonald. Photo: Darryl Sherer
McDonald voluntarily stood himself down from riding pending the outcome of an inquiry into his alleged involvement in a bet placed on Godolphin galloper Astern in December 2015.
Godolphin has announced English hoop James Doyle will take up riding duties in Australia from December.
Doyle has ridden on previous occasions in Australia during the spring and autumn carnivals.
Godolphin Managing Director in Australia Henry Plumptre reiterated that Godolphin would support McDonald while stewards investigate the allegations made against him.
“While we continue to support James McDonald over the period of the investigation, we also have a racing stable to run and James Doyle, who is a retained jockey for Godolphin, is one of the best jockeys in the world,” Plumptre said.
“With the winter recess in the UK, he is available to ride in Australia for Godolphin and Sheikh Mohammed and we are delighted to have him.”
race net