Easterby handed captaincy

Quinnell, who has put himself forward for next year's British Lions tour to New Zealand, will continue to play for the Llanelli Scarlets regional side.

"They're a very young bunch of players and it's something new and exciting for myself," Quinnell said.

"I've been under some great coaches over the years and hopefully some of that has rubbed off."

Quinnell will be helped by a coaching staff that includes the likes of another veteran player, Neil Boobyer, but admits it will be hard to juggle coaching duties with playing.

"It's going to be difficult at weekends and sometimes things will overlap, but we train during the week and each of the staff can cover each other," Quinnell added.

Quinnell coached the Llanelli Under-21s last season and says it is a natural progression that could one day lead to much bigger things.

"Hopefully putting in these couple of years with the semi-pro side will lay a platform for the coaching that will allow me to look at something once my playing days are over.

Jenkins eyes Lions role

"I've got another couple of years with the Scarlets and we'll have to see then.

"I'll be 33 in two years' time and we'll have to see how Mother Nature has left the body.

"But I want to end my playing days in Stradey, it's been a great club and I'm just glad I can play a different role."

Quinnell didn't rule out going on a third Lions tour if asked, but admitted it would be tough to gain a place when up against current Test players.

Lions coach Sir Clive Woodward has said he would consider the likes of Quinnell, former Wales scrum-half Rob Howley and former England skipper Martin Johnson even though they had retired from playing for their countries.