AS baptisms of fire into Australian racing goes, it doesn’t get much tougher than Lord Langley’s task in the Group 1 Toorak Handicap (1600m) at Caulfield.

Facing a string of last-start winners including Hartnell, Jungle Cat, I Am A Star, Cliff’s Edge and Noire, the Japanese import is winless in more than two years.

Unsurprisingly, the regally-bred newcomer is a TAB $51 chance to cause a boilover in a contest crammed with quality. But expatriate Australian Michael Tabart has faith in Darren Weir’s capacity to revive the fortunes of a fallen star.

“He showed very good form as a young horse and we’re hoping the change in environment can help turn things around for him,” Tabart said. “There are no physical issues with him and he’s regarded as the best Deep Impact colt to leave Japan.

“The Toorak is always a tough race to win, but we’re hopeful he can rediscover his old form.”

A full brother to Dubai Turf winner Real Steel, Lord Langley is one of the best-bred horses to leave Japan.

A younger sister is currently being syndicated to US interests for almost $4million.

Out of form recently, Lord Langley has lowered the colours of Japanese Group winners such as Black Moon, Derby Fizz and A Shin Bulls Eye, boasting six wins and $1.4million in stakes.

Lord Langley was sold to dissolve a partnership between top trainer Yoshito Yahagi, trainer of Caulfield Cup contender Chestnut Coat, and Sunday Racing, who raced Melbourne Cup winner Delta Blues.

Tokyo-based Tabart stepped into secure the horse, hopeful of adding another Australian Group 1 to the 2014 All-Aged Stakes he claimed with Hana’s Goal.

Weir is not sure what to expect on Saturday.

“He’s only been with us for two weeks,” Weir said.

“I have watched him gallop twice, he looks to stretch out nicely. He drew wide but he’s got to run. We’ll just ride him quietly and hopefully he can finish it off.

“We are just happy to get him in the system and have a look at him. He’s a well performed horse, but they have got to come here and do it.”