NEW signing Marco Caputo could become Worcester Rugby Club's first regular international after receiving clearance to play for Italy in this season's Six Nations championship.

The 28-year-old hooker joined Worcester yesterday after a torrid month at cash-strapped Bedford.

He has played five times for Australia, but failure to secure a place in the World Cup squad made up his mind that his future elsewhere.

Caputo left ACT Brumbies a month ago for a new life and international career in Europe.

He played twice for Bedford but became a free agent after Coventry owner Keith Fairbrother bought up the playing contracts.

"The last month has been a real eye-opener for me," he said after completing his registration forms with Worcester. "I came from a place which had a professional set-up and, if I'd known before what I was moving to, I wouldn't have come to England.

"It's a real shame for the supporters and the town that the administration is so bad."

Caputo has played 98 times for Brumbies, though his path to international stardom was blocked by Australian legend Phil Kearns.

But after he was cleared to play for Italy in June, due to his dual nationality, he now has the Premiership Two title race and the prospect of regular international rugby to anticipate.

"I played five times for Australia when Kearns was injured but, in 42 tests as a replacement, I never came off the bench once," he added. "I had to take stock of what was available. Italy came up for me and I was keen to play more test matches. The chance to play in the Six Nations would be fantastic."

Worcester's director of rugby Les Cusworth tried to sign Caputo this summer, so took little time to grab his second chance.

"He's a quality player and will bring some international experience to the squad," he said.

Caputo has signed a contract until the end of the season, so his wife and 15-month-old daughter will fly to England on Friday.