JOHN Brain has revealed that it is "unlikely" that Giscard Pieters will play against Gloucester.

Worcester Warriors' director of rugby will put the finishing touches to the South African's move to Sixways today.

But because the winger has not been involved in training this week, it is doubtful he could make Saturday's Premiership clash at Sixways.

"I think it's unlikely that he'll play," said Brain. "It's not impossible but we've done a lot of preparation for the match which he hasn't been involved in.

"It will be difficult for him to be involved now but we will see."

Brain confirmed Ben Hinshelwood will be available for Worcester against London Irish on November 7.

Scotland have an international lined up against Australia but, because the fixture was a late addition to the calendar, the game is not covered by the International Rugby Board regulation which stipulates the compulsory release of players.

The Warriors, therefore, are fully entitled to keep Hinshelwood for what is likely to be a key Premiership game.

"We've informed Matt Williams (Scotland's coach) that Ben will not be available for Scotland on November 6," said Brain.