Hazell, who made his Test debut during the autumn internationals and started Englands RBS 6 Nations Championship clash against Wales, is clearly excited by the challenge of trying to take Gloucester back to the top of English club rugby.

This season has been a big step-up in terms of achievements with my first cap, and the new contract is a great way to keep that moving, said the 26-year-old openside.

It was a huge honour to play for England in the autumn, and likewise in the Six Nations, and it is just as special playing for Gloucester.

I have grown up in the city, and I want to take Gloucester to the top. The new contract is a big boost, but nothing changes in terms of what weve got to achieve this season.

Weve got to target a move up the Premiership, starting with Saturdays game against Bath.

Hazell is likely to retain his place among the replacements for Englands RBS 6 Nations encounter against Ireland in Dublin on Sunday week.