‘Old man’ Strauss is exceptional enough to be the exception

Adriaan Strauss stands out like a sore thumb in the Bulls’ Super Rugby squad for a simple reason: he’s old.

The average age of coach John Mitchell’s assembled group is 24.

The former Springbok captain turns 33 this year and the only other thirtysomething with him is his partner at hooker Edgar Marutlulle.

Strauss’ inclusion really is a big talking point given where the Bulls stand in 2018.

Mitchell makes no secret of the fact his team is at the start of a new cycle, where “the future” is the buzzword.

It’s the reason why Bok scrumhalf Rudy Paige can’t make the squad.

Strauss isn’t one of a few veterans sprinkled into the mix to provide balance and experience.

He’s the exception, the anomaly … and that says something.

“Adriaan has a huge amount to offer,” said Mitchell.

“But he does have something to offer in a different way. He wouldn’t be in this squad if I didn’t think Adriaan couldn’t still be our first-choice hooker.”

That’s indeed a significant thing to say, especially given the fact that Mitchell’s new coaching philosophy is based heavily on personal data.

It suggests that Strauss really still has the ability to spearhead a pack at Super Rugby level.

“We’ve obviously had our conversations about what he would want to get out of himself and contribute while also being very clear of what my expectations are,” said Mitchell.

“Adriaan is experienced. He can start a game, finish a game and he’s exceptional in terms of passing on knowledge.”

Yet arguably the biggest plus is the fact that Strauss can now just focus on being a senior player in the setup.

There isn’t any suffocating pressure of being skipper anymore.

“There was a lot of weight on his shoulders as captain of the Springboks and the Bulls,” said Mitchell.

“We’re giving him the opportunity and the space where he can really enjoy his rugby but still lead.”

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