Bath's bid to sign Australian international forward Mark Connors has collapsed.

The move has been dashed because of existing contractual commitments with the Australian Rugby Union and his failure to negotiate an early release.

"Due to unresolved contractual issues, it has not been possible to complete the signing of Mark Connors," said Bath, in a statement.

"We are all disappointed the move will not take place, but our first concern is that we have a fully fit and motivated squad who are using this pre-season period to launch our Premiership drive to maximum effect.''

The Connors situation could at least safeguard American international Dan Lyle's immediate Recreation Ground future after it emerged Welsh outfit Newport were among those clubs interested in a possible swoop.

The Australian invasion of Bath did continue yesterday as Chris Mallac was appointed as the club's new Head of Physical Preparation.

The 31-year-old former Queensland Reds man will co-ordinate all medical and strength and conditioning within the squad.

Mallac joins first team coach Brian Smith and defence guru Richard Graham on Wallaby-laden backroom staff of another Aussie cap, first team driector Michael Foley.