SCOTLAND star Calum MacLeod is ready to launch his latest quest to prove he is good enough to thrive on the English county circuit.

The former Warwickshire squad member will head south today for a trial stint with Northamptonshire.

He will line up against Durham in a one-day encounter for the second eleven, then again in a shadow Championship tussle.

And MacLeod, admitted the ball is in his court in terms of clinching a more permanent place with a professional outfit.

The Uddingston skipper said: "The approach from Northants came out of the blue, so it was heartening to know they had been keeping tabs on me.

"This is a great opportunity for me to put myself in the shop window and it is up to me to make the most of the chance.

"I am just praying the weather will allow me to show what I can do at that level."

Since being freed by Warwickshire more than a year ago, MacLeod as emerged as Scotland's leading batsman.

But despire his allegiance to the Saltires, he is keen to shine at Boldon, near Durham, in the hope of impressing the people who matter.

MacLeod's commitment with Northants has ruled him out of the Scotland Lions line-up for this week's away tussle with Lancashire Seconds.

The side will be led by Richie Berrington.

Team: R Berrington, R Flannigan, E Chalmers, P Mommsen, C Wallace, A Umeed, M Cross, M Haq, M Iqbal, M Parker, C Burnett, G Goudie.