AUSTRALIAN Brian Smith is expected to be unveiled as the new addition to Michael Foley's Bath coaching staff later today (Tuesday).

The former Wallaby international scrum-half, who also won nine caps for Ireland, will be confirmed as the latest addition to the Rec backroom team following the arrival of Jack Rowell as director of rugby earlier this summer.

Smith, formerly of ACT Brumbies, will be brought on board as an attacking mastermind but it is thought he may be handed the title of first-team coach, working alongside Foley on the training pitch under the overall jurisdiction of Rowell.

Bath are also keen to complete the signing of Queensland Reds lock Mark Connors, who has been held up by a wrangle with the Australian Rugby Union over when he can leave his club contract.

Meanwhile, Welsh side Pontypridd have confirmed they have received a formal approach from Bath for tighthead prop Duncan Bell.

THE likelihood of Bath entering into an October weekend double-header in Italy with Premiership rivals Wasps appears to be receding.

Both sides have been drawn away to sides in Parma in the first round of the new-look Parker Pen Challenge Cup on the weekend of October 12-13.

Bath could play G.R.A.N Parma on the Overmach ground on the Saturday, prior to the hosts' 7pm clash with Wasps.

But it now looks more likely that Michael Foley's side will play at G.R.A.N's 800-capacity ground.

Another alternative is to play the match on the Sunday but Bath officials will press for an early kick-off if this option is pursued.