Shiki returns to Randwick on Saturday looking sharper and more mature than when she scored her gutsy debut win in the Gimcrack Stakes. Trainer Adrian Bott says the filly has taken a significant physical step forward as she begins her march toward the Magic Millions.

The TAB Plate (1000m) marks her first outing since October, when she raced on speed and held off challengers despite still being a work in progress.

“Even though she was doing everything right and was precocious, she was never fully there in terms of her coat for the Gimcrack,” Bott said.

“She has come back in and actually looks like she is thriving.

“She seems a very natural two-year-old type, and she has come back in good shape.”

The filly is a short-priced $1.55 favourite as the only runner with race experience, but Bott is keeping her preparation focused firmly on the Magic Millions Classic.

“She is forward enough for this first-up run with some good improvement to come. Obviously, the main aim is centred around the Magic Millions,” he said.

“She is qualified, so the pressure isn’t on in that regard, but this is a nice race to kick off in. She gets in well under the weight conditions.”

The stable has room to slot in another run before heading north, but Bott says they will let Saturday guide the plan.

Early markets have Shiki at $4.50 for the Magic Millions Classic, sitting second behind Paradoxium.

Tulloch Lodge could have multiple runners heading to the Gold Coast, including Lumbini, who steps out in Friday’s Magic Millions The Debut 2YO Plate.

“She trialled up really well. She has had a bit of time in Queensland now and it’s a race that could qualify her,” Bott said.

“A horse like Knight’sbridge will try to head that way if he can qualify.”

Those planning to follow Shiki’s campaign can compare odds across trusted Australian betting sites.