Nicholson to lead women's team again

LESLEY Nicholson, who came within a whisker of leading Scotland to a first victory in 18 years in the Women's Home Internationals last season, has been re- appointed as captain for this year's event, to be played at Whitchurch in Wales in September.

The former Ladies' European Tour professional will also fill the post for the European Ladies' Team Championship at La Manga, Spain, in July following a double appointment announced by the Scottish Ladies Golfing Association.

Nicholson led the Scots to third place in the Home Internationals in her first year as captain in 2008 before taking them to the verge of the title at Irvine Bogside last September, only to be denied by an agonising singles collapse against Wales on the final day.

Two members of that team, Carly Booth and Kylie Walker, have since turned professional after qualifying for the LET but Nicholson said:

"We came very close to lifting the Home Internationals trophy last year and I think we have a great chance to do well in all competitions this year."

In other appointments confirmed by the SLGA, Karen Marshall will captain the Scottish girls; her Baberton clubmate, Pamela Williamson, will lead the Scottish seniors; while Lanark's Elaine Cuthill is in charge of the side for the SLGA Under-16 Championship at Strathmore in April.