Australian jockey Damian Lane is on the verge of securing a riding licence previously held only by Christophe Lemaire and Mirco Demuro, a rare distinction in international racing circles.

The news comes as 23 runners remain in contention for the Cox Plate at Flemington, with Sir Delius and Aeliana both still in the frame. The race shapes as a strong field, with connections backing the view that the best horse on the day will prevail.