Former Lions skipper Josh Strauss has put pen to paper on a three-year contract with Scottish Pro12 club Glasgow Warriors.

The 25-year-old is renowned as one of the most dynamic and powerful back-rowers in the Super XV competition, where he has captained the Lions for the last two seasons.

Strauss today outlined his enthusiasm at joining with the Warriors, telling www.glasgowwarriors.org: "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.

"I’m massively looking forward to arriving in Glasgow, seeing the facilities at Scotstoun Stadium for myself, and playing my part in helping the club achieve a successful season."

President of the Lions, Kevin de Klerk stated this morning: "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."

Glasgow Head coach Gregor Townsend has hailed Strauss as a “terrific addition”, saying: “Josh is an outstanding player and person who will be a fantastic asset for our team and club.

“He’s a signing who will excite both the rest of the squad and our supporters,
who doubtless will have enjoyed watching him lead from the front with the Lions in Super XV.

"Technically, he has all the elements you’d want to see in a No.8.

"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."

The move could also see Strauss lost to the South African game entirely.

"This is an exciting move for Josh and the timing is perfect as it potentially opens up the opportunity for representing Scotland at the next World Cup," said Strauss' agent Dane Galley.

Director of World Artists Anthony Johnson added, "I'm very happy for Josh and I'm glad we could facilitate the process of getting him an early release."

Strauss will be joining the Glasgow Warriors in the next two weeks.