New Zealand mare Silent Achiever has been withdrawn from the Melbourne Cup.

The mare sustained an injury in the Caulfield Cup and although she worked strongly on Tuesday morning, she subsequently developed an infection.

Connections of last year’s NZ Derby winner told stewards on Friday they did not intend to accept for Tuesday’s $6.2 million Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington.

With Silent Achiever out, it means international galloper Simenon is assured of a start, moving to 22nd in the order of entry for the 24-horse field.

The winners of Saturday’s Lexus Stakes and Mackinnon Stakes, if entered for the Cup, earn a ballot exemption into the Cup.

Mr O’Ceirin, who was 31st in order of entry, was highly unlikely to get a run and also taken out on Friday.

Silent Achiever’s absence means there will be no New Zealand-trained runner in the Melbourne Cup, although trans-Tasman trainer Mike Moroney will be represented from his Melbourne base with recent acquisition Voleuse De Couers, the winner of the Irish St Leger.