Former Scotland captain Andy Nicol yesterday completed the formalities of his return north

of the Border to join Glasgow Caledonian Reds.

Scrum half Nicol has been out of favour at Bath for much of this season as he has struggled for form and fitness since the turn of the year.

He told the club, who he captained to European Cup success, some weeks ago of his decision to return to Scotland when his contract expired.

''It was not a secret that I was unhappy at Bath,'' said Nicol. ''I made it clear that, if the right opportunity came along, I would seriously consider returning to Scotland.

''Contracts were being re- negotiated and streamlined at Bath and salaries were being cut.''

However, Nicol stressed: ''Money was not the be-all and end-all. My priority is being based where I can get first-team rugby every week - and if there is a better chance of that in Scotland then I had to go for it.''