Bath coach Michael Foley is hoping to have new signing Mark Connors on board for the start of the season despite fears he may not arrive until December.

The Australian Rugby Union are demanding that Connors sees out the remainder of his contract and club commitments with Queensland Reds.

Connors has insisted he has no desire to compete for a place in the Wallabies World Cup squad.

But the ARU look upon domestic competition as a vital breeding ground for international talent and feel Connors, who has 20 international caps, should compete.

New challenge

However, Foley, a former Queensland team-mate of the new arrival, is hoping a compromise can be found.

He said: "The ARU contracts do run through to the end of December but we are hopeful of seeing Mark here long before then, hopefully in time for the new season.

"Mark has come to the end of his playing days in Australia and sees a move to Bath as a fresh challenge.

"I would like to think that the ARU will balance that against the very important nature of the competition they are establishing."

Meanwhile, Bath have confirmed two high-profile friendly visits to Wales ahead of the new season.

They visit Brewery Field to take on Bridgend on 17 August 17, then play old rivals Cardiff at the Arms Park on the following Saturday.