Henin-Hardenne carries Belgium's Fed Cup hopes

LONDON, Sep 6 (Reuters) French Open champion Justine Henin-Hardenne heads Belgium's team for the Fed Cup final against Italy in Charleroi on Sept. 16-17.

In the absence of Kim Clijsters, who has a wrist injury, the world number two was joined on the team list by Kirsten Flipkens, Caroline Maes and Leslie Butkiewicz the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said today.

World number 15 Francesca Schiavone was the top ranked player in Italy's team nominations, which also included Flavia Pennetta, Mara Santangelo and Roberta Vinci.

It will be Italy's first Fed Cup final. Belgium's only other appearance was in 2001 when they beat Russia.

Russia won the competition in 2005.

REUTERS AY KP 2128