Strauss is packing for Glasgow

Former Lions captain Joshua Strauss has signed with Scottish Pro12 club Glasgow Warriors on a three year contract.

The versatile loose forward who led the Golden Lions to the Currie Cup title last year will join the Warriors in the next two weeks on a contract that will expire in May 2015.

The former Maties player represented Boland at Under-19 and U21 level before spending a year in France with Lons-le-Saunier.

He made his Currie Cup debut in 2010, and impressed to the extent that he was handed both the Currie Cup and Super Rugby captaincy in 2011.

Strauss quickly established himself as a cult figure with supporters both through his rambunctious style of play and distinctive full-length beard.

Golden Lions Rugby Union President Kevin de Klerk commented: "We are pleased that we could come to an agreement with Josh and Glasgow Warriors which will allow Josh to fulfill his desire in playing rugby in Europe for an extended period.

"We want to thank Josh for his contribution at the Lions and wish him all the best with his future."

Strauss said: "I am very grateful to the Lions for the opportunities afforded to me to grow as a player and thereby assisting me in being able to make this change now."

The loss of Strauss is the latest blow for the Lions who lost their Super Rugby status for 2013 to make way for the Southern Kings.

The hard-working forward has shown the ability to play at flank, No.8 and even lock this season so he will be a valuable acquisition for the Warriors.

The signing is described on the Warriors website as one of the most exciting in the club's history, as Strauss is expected to add massive value to their loose trio where Glasgow already boast the likes of Rob Harley, Angus Macdonald, James Eddie, John Barclay, Chris Fusaro and Ryan Wilson.

Strauss said that he is eager to hit the ground running when he joins up with his new side in the next fortnight.

"I'm really excited to have signed for Glasgow Warriors, and can't wait to get on that plane and hit the ground running with my new club and team-mates.

"I've had a number of really positive conversations with [head coach] Gregor Townsend, where he's explained how ambitious the club are to move forward on and off the field.

"There are a lot of top players in the squad, especially in the back row, and I know I will have to fight hard to prove my worth and earn selection," he added.

Townsend has hailed Strauss as a "terrific addition", hailing the former Lions skipper as a classic No.8.

He said: "Josh is an outstanding player and person who will be a fantastic asset for our team and club.

"Technically, he has all the elements you'd want to see in a No.8. Ryan Wilson has been in excellent form these past 12 months, and having that level of competition is great for all concerned.

"Josh is here first and foremost to make an outstanding contribution on the field, but we also see him as someone who will be a very positive and inspirational influence for our young back-row players as they make strides in the game," he said.