Cosmic Crusader has asserted himself on the Melbourne racing scene since Andrea Leek took the reins of the Group 1-winning gelding out at Pakenham.

Two wins from two starts this prep, in the Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes, and Group 2 P.B. Lawrence Stakes on Saturday have proven his class away from Western Australia.

Stripping fitter again, he is the horse to beat in the Memsie Stakes, compounded by the news that Sheza Alibi is bound for the Winx Stakes in Sydney this coming weekend.

Wayne Hawkes on SENTrack and RSN’s Giddy Up praised Cosmic Crusader but questioned the legitimacy of these wins, waiting for duels against the best horses in the country.

“He’s ticking every box except are you going to take on the best, and perform at your best, against the best?” Hawkes asked.

The biggest threat to Cosmic Crusader’s early campaign dominance is Jimmysstar, who looks to ignite his Everest minded preparation.

Prominent owner John O’Neill was adamant about the chances of Jimmysstar in the Memsie over 1400m at Caulfield on August 29.

“Jimmysstar is airborne! Rocket ship,” O’Neill added.

“I am not scared of Cosmic Crusader.

“If he can draw a gate and find a spot, I’d be happy to be on Jimmysstar.”

Although Cosmic Crusader boasts a strong Caufield track record, Jimmysstar has a much more significant CV at the course, winning a Group 1 Oakleigh Plate and C.F Orr Stakes.

The 2026 edition of the Group 1 Memsie Stakes is shaping to be another almighty spring launch pad.

Cosmic Crusader is currently marketed at $3.50 with Sportsbet, with Jimmysstar a touch wider at $4.

Listen to the full Monday Means Test below: