Josh Strauss

Loose forward Josh Strauss was a dominating force for the Lions in the Super 15, and the bearded star continues to impress and establish himself as one of the brightest talents in South African Rugby.

Powerful in contact, Strauss is a highly rated player who started his career with Boland and, while performing well for the Maties in the Varsity Cup in 201, attracted attention from a number of Unions in South Africa and in Europe.

Given an opportunity at the Lions during the 2010 Currie Cup, Strauss quickly made a name for himself - impressing Kiwi Coach John Mitchell. The dynamic back row star has gone from strength to strength in recent times and was recently voted the Lions 'Fans Player of the Super 15'.

Seen as a natural leader on the park, Strauss was handed the Lions captaincy for a game in the Super 15, beating out several more experienced candidates when the regular captain was out injured. The charismatic 24 year-old has also attracted a lot of attention due to his noticeable beard - a similar style to that donned by French icon Sebastian Chabal. Ultimately though his performances have been what have made Strauss stand out and the coming Super Rugby Season will be a great platform for the former Bolander to continue to show his talents.

Date of Birth: 23/10/86
Position: No.8 / Blindside Flank
Height: 1.92m
Weight: 114kg
Currently contracted to: Lions
Media: Lion-man Strauss on Supersport

Rugby Career:

2012: Lions (Super Rugby)
2011: Lions (Super Rugby), Lions (Currie Cup)
2010: Lions (Currie Cup Premier Division), Maties (Varsity Cup)
2009: Boland (Currie Cup Premier Division), Boland Cavaliers (Vodacom Cup)
2008: Boland Kavaliers (Currie Cup Premier Division)
2006: Boland (Under-21 Competition)
2005: Boland (Under-19)