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.

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.