Alison Nicholas steps down as European captain

Alison Nicholas has revealed that she plans to step down from her position as captain of the European Solheim Cup team.

The 49-year-old guided her team to a 15-13 victory over their American counterparts in Ireland yesterday, but has insisted that she will not be part of the squad which attempts to defend the title in Colorado in two years' time.

"No, I've done my time," she said when asked by Sky Sports News about the possibility of staying on in her role.

"I'm very happy and I need to hand the baton on.

"It's important that other players deserve that opportunity and honour."

Nicholas retired from the game in 2004.