European import Changingoftheguard has been scratched from this afternoon's $5.5 million Emirates Melbourne Cup (3200m) at Flemington.

Racing Victoria's chief vet Dr Paul O'Callaghan was not happy with Changingoftheguard's action after an inspection yesterday and ruled he could not run in the Cup after a second examination this morning.

‘‘They see lameness that is not there,’’ Trainer David Hayes said. ‘‘The horse is not lame.’’

Changingoftheguard’s Cup leadup was interrupted by a foot abscess two weeks ago, but he recovered and worked well on Sunday.

His withdrawal leaves triple Melbourne Cup winning jockey Glen Boss without a ride.