Josh Strauss to leave Sale Sharks for Bulls

Sale Sharks have confirmed the departure of Scotland international Josh Strauss with immediate effect.

Strauss joined Sale Sharks in 2017 on a three-year deal but will now leave them despite a season remaining on his contract after both the parties reached a mutual agreement. He has played for the club 46 times with 36 out of it coming in the Premiership.

The 32-year-old will now head to Super Rugby club Bulls and has previously played for Lions in 2011 and 2012 seasons.

“I would like to thank josh for his endeavours over the last two years with the club, we wish him every success for the future, and good luck at the World Cup with Scotland in September," said Sale Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond.

"I am sure he will be a huge success at his new club, and he is welcome back to Manchester anytime.”

Strauss, who has been capped 22 times for Scotland is also in the World Cup training squad announced by Gregor Townsend. He thanked everyone who supported him in Sale Sharks and is looking forward to his stint with Bulls.

”I really enjoyed my time at Sale, everyone at the club was really welcoming and I enjoyed Manchester a lot.

"For family reasons a move back to South Africa makes sense and I was delighted to get an offer from the Bulls ahead of the 2020 Super Rugby Season. I wish Dimes and the club all the best for the future.”