Josh Lord, born on 17 January 2001, is a talented New Zealand rugby union player who currently represents Taranaki in the Mitre 10 Cup. He primarily plays as a lock. Lord's potential was recognized when he was named in the Chiefs' wider training squad for the 2020 Super Rugby season, and he progressed to the full squad in 2021.
Despite having only one season of Super Rugby experience, Lord's impressive performances led to him being called up as cover for Scott Barrett in the All Blacks squad for the 2021 end-of-year tests. He made his international debut for New Zealand, coming off the bench and playing 22 minutes against the USA Eagles on 24 October.
Standing at an imposing height of 2.02 meters, Lord has showcased his skills and versatility as a lock. He has made notable contributions in the lineout and demonstrated his willingness to carry the ball throughout the Sky Super Rugby competition.
Lord's success extends beyond his Super Rugby career. He had previously excelled in the University of Waikato U20's side and was also part of the New Zealand U20's team, highlighting his capabilities at the youth level.
Following his National Provincial campaign with the Taranaki Bulls, Lord is set to return to the Gallagher Chiefs for the 2022 season. His consistent performances and potential make him a valuable asset to his provincial and Super Rugby teams.
Hailing from the small township of Owhango in the central North Island, Lord attended Hamilton Boys’ High School and first came onto the national radar with the University of Waikato Under 20 side as well as the New Zealand Under 20 team in 2018.
A powerful second rower, Josh Lord made his Mtire 10 Cup debut in 2019 for Taranaki and went on to place three further games in his debut season as an 18-year-old.
A towering lock standing 2.02m tall, Lord built on a solid start to his professional career and was named in the Chiefs' wider squad for 2020.
He was later called in as a replacement during the 2020 Super Rugby Aotearoa season but did not make his debut.
A stellar 2020 Mitre 10 Cup campaign saw Lord earn a full senior squad contract with the Chiefs for the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa and Trans-Tasman competitions.
He made his Super Rugby debut against the Crusaders in 2021 and played five matches.
Lord has proved himself as a versatile lock and at 2.02m has impressed with his lineout work and with ball in hand.
KG(04/06/2023)
Career
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Taranaki No 4 Lock |
2019 - present |
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Chiefs No 5 Lock |
2021 - present |
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New Zealand No 4 Lock |
2021 - present |
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All Blacks XV No 4 Lock |
2024 - present |
