British and Irish Lions

Hull, who played for the club between 1987 and 1999, helped turn Bristol's defence into the best in the Guinness Premiership last season.

Bristol head coach Richard Hill said: "Hully has been a huge part of what we've achieved in the past three seasons. He is becoming an outstanding coach and one whom I am delighted to work with."

The Waratahs upset the odds by beating Super Rugby leaders the Brumbies 28-22, but the game came at a huge cost to Qantas Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.