Saracens have signed US Hooker Phil Thiel to provide short-term cover for Schalk Brits, who was included in the Springbok squad for the Rugby Championship.

Thiel, 29, has signed a four-month contract at Allianz Park snd 17st 11lb American joins compatriots Titi Lamositele, Hayden Smith, Chris Wyles and Thretton Palamo in the Saracens ranks.

Speaking to the club's website, he said: “I’m really looking forward to training with the Premiership league winners.

“Following the squad’s recent visits to New York and Chicago, and the number of US players on the roster, an ever increasing number of Americans can see there is something special happening at Saracens, and I am delighted to be part of it.