Brits's USA stand-in

 

The 29-year-old Thiel – capped 22 times since he made his international debut in 2009 – will cover at the English giants for Brits on a short term contract.

 

Brits is currently third choice hooker behind Bismarck du Plessis and Ardrian Strauss in the South African national set-up, as they prepare to take on Australia in Perth on Saturday.

 

The English Premiership kicks-off on Friday with Saracens taking on London Wasps on Saturday.

 

"I'm really looking forward to training with the Premiership league winners," said Thiel.

 

"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."

 

Thiel joins four other American internationals at the club, Titi Lamositele, Hayden Smith, Chris Wyles and Thretton Palamo.