Waaheb looked a class act as he made a winning debut over hurdles on his return from a long absence at Fairyhouse.

The former top bumper performer was making his first start since suffering his only defeat at Punchestown in 2011 but showed no signs of ring rust.

The 8/13 favourite was held up by Mark Walsh in the two-mile conditions hurdle before taking closer order turning for home.

The Elusive Quality gelding cruised up to dispute before the final flight and only had to be shaken up on the run-in to sprint clear of his rivals.

He went on to post an impressive six-and-a-half length victory over Silver Friend

Waaheb won three bumpers before just losing out in an epic duel with Lovethehigherlaw in the Grade One event at Punchestown in 2011.

"That was very satisfactory," said Weld afterwards.

"He still has a lot to learn. He was a bit novicey early but his jumping improved as the race progressed.

"We'll look for a novice but could wait until Christmas as we're not in any hurry with him.

"I hope the spring is his target. He's won in testing ground there but that's really not what he wants. He's a talented horse with a lot of class."

Stan James shortened the winner from 16/1 to 10/1 for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle, with Don Cossack their 9/1 favourite. Paddy Power make him 12/1 (from 16's) for the Cheltenham Festival curtain raiser.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)