British and Irish Lions

Centre Adam Powell yesterday put pen to paper on a new deal and England Under-20 international Mercey, 19, has quickly followed suit.

Director of rugby Alan Gaffney said: "Tom is one of the most outstanding front-row talents I've seen in my career.

"He has been a vital member of the first-team squad this season and has turned in some excellent performances.

"Looking back at our EDF Energy Cup match against Wasps in December, Tom came up against Tim Payne of Wasps - a player who this week has been selected for the England side.

I would have to say that on that day, Tom got the better of him.

"Looking at the fact that he's still only 19 years old and already capable of handling himself against some of the best props in the competition, he's got the potential to be a fantastic player for Saracens."

The Barbarians were put to the sword by an England XV at Twickenham Stadium as they were beaten 40-12 in their warm-up match for Saturday's clash with the British & Irish Lions in Hong Kong.

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.

Some very lucky winners got to host some of the British & Irish Lions in their homes in Ireland this week. 'Host The Pride' gave the opportunity for fans to host some of the biggest names in world rugby.