Sportsbet Sandown Cup contender Unreal Speed has been scratched from Friday’s final.

It's due to injury that was identified post last Thursday's heat win.

"He has a crack in his fibula, fortunately it's not one of the main bones in that region of his leg," said trainer Rob Britton.

While the setback isn't serious it forces him to the sidelines for near term staying features.

"He'll have at least a month off."

Unreal Speed has won eight of his 11 starts and was the fastest of the Sandown Cup heat winners.

First reserve Ritza Piper will now gain a start in the $175,000 to-the-winner final. Betting markets will be adjusted soon.

Superstar stayer Valpolicella is expected to shorten following Unreal Speed's withdrawal.

Nominations for Friday's meeting close Wednesday 9am. The card will also feature the Cup Night Stayers and heats of the Judy Hayley Memorial.