The ABC has banned Chris Bath from hosting an Aussie version of Pointless on Channel 10

THE ABC has stopped Chris Bath from taking the job as host of an Aussie version of hit quiz show Pointless on Channel 10.

The ABC has banned Chris Bath from hosting a version of Pointless on Channel 10.

Insiders have confirmed that Bath, who currently presents an evening show on ABC radio, was offered the job as presenter of a local version of the top-rating UK quiz show.

Bath is popular with the public and has plenty of hosting experience, and Pointless would have been a move into new territory — but the ABC stopped it cold.

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That is reportedly because the ABC screens the British original and bosses didn’t want one of its staff members fronting an Aussie version on a rival network.

Now, coincidentally, the ABC is saying that it has far-reaching plans for Bath, who presents Evenings on ABC Radio Sydney.

Chris Bath has been prevented from hosting an Aussie version of Pointless on Ten.

It had better be quick because the 51-year-old’s contract is rumoured to run out at the end of the year.

“Chris Bath is a popular and highly valued member of the ABC Radio Sydney team,” an ABC spokesman said. “The ABC is looking to use Chris’ television and radio skills across all its platforms in the future.”

Alexander Armstrong and Richard Osman present the UK version of Pointless.

Ten says that Bath was one of a number of people who auditioned as Pointless host but insiders dispute that claim, saying Bath was offered the gig without an audition.

Ten was said to be mystified by Bath’s sudden “no” and is yet to announce a replacement.

Ten has been holding auditions for the Pointless host as well as a co-host quiz expert adjudicator.

“As we do with every new show that is under consideration, we are looking at many options for Pointless,” a Ten spokesman said.

Chris Bath and husband Jim Wilson. Picture: Richard Dobson

“Everyone we have screen-tested has been great, but it would be inappropriate for us to comment on speculation about any individual person.

“We look forward to officially announcing Pointless and its host in due course.”

The UK version of Pointless, which premiered in 2009, is hosted by Alexander Armstrong with quiz master Richard Osman.

The object of the game is for contestants to come up with the correct, but most obscure answer possible to a series of general knowledge questions.