Wallaby hooker heads to England

Charles, who has won four international caps, joins the club following a spell with French Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne.

The 28-year-old has spent most of his career with Western Force, but has experience of playing in the UK after a six-week stint with Bath’s West Country rivals Gloucester Rugby in 2011.

Charles said: "I’m really looking forward to returning to England to play for such a prestigious club.

"It’s an exciting time for Bath and I’m ready to hit the ground running in what is a crucial few weeks in Europe and the Premiership,"

Director of Rugby, Todd Blackadder, added: "After losing three hookers in the last month, we’re really fortunate to be able to bring in someone of Nathan’s calibre.

"He’s an extremely mobile forward and I am sure he will offer a great deal to the squad in the closing stages of the season,"