French stayer Dunaden will have to overcome a wide barrier to defend his Melbourne Cup crown.

Dunaden, to be ridden by Craig Williams, drew barrier 16 in the 24-horse field.

Winner of the Caulfield Cup last month, Dunaden started from gate 13 when he edged out Red Cadeaux in last year's race.

Another French stayer, Americain, drew midfield in barrier 12. He came from stall 11 to win in 2010.

The Luca Cumani-trained Mount Athos will start from barrier eight with the English trainer's second runner My Quest For Peace drawing the rails.

Zabeelionaire drew the widest marble while Red Cadeaux will come from gate 18.

Galileo's Choice for two-time winning trainer Dermot Weld has gate 11.

Master trainer Bart Cummings has two runners as he chases a 13th Cup win with Sanagas in barrier four and Precedence in stall 20.

The Hawkes family training partnership will also have two starters with the 2010 runner-up Maluckyday in gate nine and Sydney Cup winner Niwot in barrier 15.