It would be apt if James Cummings could win the race named after his legendary late grandfather but he is cautious about the chances of Tally.

The five-year-old gelding will take on defending Melbourne Cup champion Almandin in the Bart Cummings (2500m) at Flemington on Saturday.

Cummings, the head Australian trainer for Sheikh Mohammed's racing empire Godolphin, says the gelding has trained on well since finishing seventh in his last start at Caulfield.

"It's a shame that Tally was a little lacklustre last start because he was building to a really big performance," Cummings said.

"I'd like to see him run well but I wouldn't be able to make any promises because he's coming off a negative run.

"He was saved up for a nice bit of work on Tuesday morning and he worked too well for him not to run.

"He's had a lighter build-up to this race and he's brighter in himself and has put a bit of weight back on."

"The winner of the Bart Cummings gains automatic entry to the Melbourne Cup, the route owner Lloyd Williams took last year with Almandin.

Tally has already earned his spot in the Caulfield Cup via his win in the Mornington Cup earlier this year.