Sharmila Nicollet misses cut at Finnair Masters

Sharmila Nicollet missed the cut at the Finnair Masters, but said she learnt a lot in her maiden appearance this season on the Ladies European Tour.

The tall Indian pro shot rounds of 78 and 79 and her final nine proved to be her best with just one bogey.

Nicollet, who has been very successful on the domestic WGAI Tour where she topped the Order of Merit last year, said it was a great experience to play an event of such a high level.

Thailand's Titiya Plucksataporn, a top-10 finisher at the Hero Honda Women's Indian Open last year, and Anne-Lise Caudal of France set the pace with six-under par 65 on the first day.

Plucksataporn, 28, from Bangkok, established the clubhouse lead with an eagle, six birdies and two bogeys on a warm opening morning at Helsinki Golf Club.

Plucksataporn had a career best finish of fifth at the 2007 Ladies Masters in India.