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World number one Luke Donald will return to Castle Stuart next month to defend his Scottish Open title.

The 34-year-old Englishman won by four strokes at the Inverness course last year in the rain-hit event.

Two-time major winner Angel Cabrera, who finished third last year, is another confirmed starter, along with Ernie Els and Padraig Harrington.

Louis Oosthuizen, the 2010 Open winner, will make his first appearance at Castle Stuart.

There will be a strong home contingent at the tournament which runs from 12-15 July, led by Paul Lawrie, Martin Laird, Colin Montgomerie and Sandy Lyle.

Peter Adams, championship director, said: "We are delighted that a field of the highest quality will assemble at Castle Stuart in just under three weeks' time.

"With the world number one and a host of major champions and tournament winners in the field, we can anticipate another superb week of world class competition on a world class links course."

Torrential rain in the Highlands washed out Saturday's play last year, cutting the tournament to 54 holes.

And Donald shot a sparkling 63 on Sunday to prevail.