Bulls Axe Josh Strauss

After just six appearances for the Pretoria-based Bulls, Josh Strauss has been informed that his services to the franchise are no longer required.

Strauss signed a two year deal with the Bulls in the beginning of 2020, however, Director of Rugby Jake White conveyed a message through Strauss’ agent that he would not be part of their plans going forward.

"When I decided to come back last year and play for the Bulls it was 100% because of family reasons. I also considered several good offers from overseas clubs but decided to take a massive pay cut to come home for my family," Strauss told Netwerk24 .

Strauss, a back-rower, faced stiff competition with the likes of Duane Vermeulen, Arno Botha and Nizaam Carr already in the mix as well.

However, the 33 year old, who boasts 15 caps for Scotland, has said that he is not interested in retirement yet and is on the look-out for a new opportunity.

The Bulls confirmed the news with the following statement:

"The Blue Bulls Company would like to confirm that it has reached a mutual settlement with flank Josh Strauss regarding his departure from Loftus.

The Scottish international joined the Vodacom Bulls in 2019 and featured strongly in the 2020 Super Rugby competition before it was halted due to Covid-19.

Contrary to media reports, there has been an open line of communication between BBCo Director of Rugby Jake White, and Strauss’ management agency over the last few months.

Strauss was open and honest in informing the Vodacom Bulls that he would be looking at other offers from overseas clubs, due to the financial strain after salary cuts across the board in South African Rugby.

He also strongly emphasized that the travel and distance between him and his family in Cape Town was starting to take its toll, and that he was looking forward to spending more quality time with them.

White thanked Strauss for his commitment and wished him well, “Josh is a great guy and I truly respect his decision to put his family first. It’s a tough situation to be in, working and living far away from your kids and not seeing them as often as you like. We fully understand his situation and would like to sincerely thank him for his commitment and efforts while at the Bulls, and wish him everything of the best with his path ahead.”