Hearing date for James McDonald

Jockey James McDonald will learn his fate when he fronts Racing NSW stewards over a betting charge later this week.

A hearing will be held on Thursday with or without punter Anthony Gardiner, a central figure in the investigation into McDonald having an interest in a bet on Astern when he rode him to win his debut in December last year.

Banner error, could not find casino id "william-hill-sport"

Gardiner has been warned off after so far refusing to be interviewed by stewards.

Godolphin’s retained Australian rider, McDonald stood himself down after he was charged last month.