DAME Kelly Holmes's injury jinx has struck again and she has withdrawn from this weekend's European Cup First League match in Leiria, Portugal.

Double Olympic gold medalist Holmes was expected to run the 800m as well as captain the Great Britain and Northern Ireland women's team as they seek promotion back into the Super League following their shock relegation last year.

But Dr Bruce Hamilton, UK Athletics chief medical officer, has advised Holmes, from Hildenborough, to withdraw as a precaution after a mild recurrence of an old Achilles problem.

Holmes said: "I'm disappointed that I am no longer able to complete with the girls next weekend. My decision is just a precautionary measure following a slight inflammation of my right Achilles.

"My decision to withdraw is because I want to make sure I am right for the rest of the season."

She will be replaced by the European Junior bronze medallist, Jemma Simpson (Newquay and Par).