Nick Rockett will not defend his Grand National crown after being declared a non-runner 48 hours out from the race.
The nine-year-old was a brilliant winner of the race 12 months ago, however, he has suffered an interrupted prep on his way to Aintree this time around and connections have decided to withdraw him from Saturday's race.
Gordon Elliott's Pied Piper is now guaranteed to be part of the 34-strong field.
News of Nick Rockett's absence will be a cruel blow to jockey Tom Bellamy who only discovered he was booked to ride the horse at the declaration stage.
Bellamy is riding with tremendous confidence off the back of a Cheltenham Festival success aboard White Noise and this clearly caught the attentions of Willie Mullins, who earmarked Bellamy for the ride despite the two having never spoken.
The ride was left up for grabs after the shock news filtered through that Patrick Mullins had opted to switch to Grangeclare West instead of sticking with the defending champion.
This campaign hasn't been straightforward for Nick Rockett though, with Mullins only able to get one run into his star due to injury issues.
He returned from a 346-day break to finish third behind Gerri Colombe at Down Royal early last month.
One mans loss is anothers gain, however, and Pied Piper has been waiting patiently in the wings for a shot at Grand National glory.
He may have been afforded a chance compete anyway should Spillane's Tower take up his entry in the Aintree Bowl on Thursday but connections have now been assured of a run.
Imperial Saint is next reserve on the list if Spillane's Tower does not run in Saturday's feature.
