Montagu has been an ever-present in Bristol's Championship campaign

Bristol back row forward Dan Montagu says he thinks rugby is a better sport for being more physical.

The sport's governing body was under pressure recently to change some of its laws in an effort to reduce the amount of injuries in the game.

But Montagu told BBC Radio Bristol: "I try to put my stamp on the game with my physical presence and make big hits. That's why I play a contact sport.

"I think the game is more exciting and getting more professional."

The 26-year-old Australian continued: "Now you see some giants out on that field and you've just got to keep up with the times.

It's a better sport with bigger hits and bigger collisions. Dan Montagu

"Back in the day the boys weren't going into the gym so the speed and the size of the guys were a bit smaller. We do a lot of work with the fitness and conditioning trainers which helps you on the pitch."

He added: "It's a better sport with bigger hits and bigger collisions. It takes some wear and tear on the bodies but it's pretty good for the spectators."

Montagu joined Bristol in the summer from Championship rivals Nottingham and has played in every league game this season, scoring two tries.

One of these came against bottom side Birmingham and Solihull, who Bristol face again this weekend.

And although the Bees have had their own troubles this season, after falling into administration and losing some key players, Montagu is expecting a tough match.

"Just look at the result when we played them down at their place (Bristol won 40-36)," he said.

"The guys have got to have their heads on. Birmingham have got nothing to lose. They are going to throw the ball around regardless of where they are in the table. It's going to be a tough clash."

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