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Glasgow The Warriors have bolstered their front row with the immediate signing of South African loosehead Leon Lyons, who is subject to a visa.
The 27-year-old arrives at Scotstoun having helped Griquas won this season’s Currie Cup, starting with a 23-16 win over Cougars in the final.
The 122kg Lyons made 26 appearances for Kimberley and has previously represented Western Province and the Stormers, and his form has also earned him a place in Lions squad for the 2025/26 season.
He played against the Johannesburg team Newcastle Red Bulls last December and will now remain in Glasgow until Guinness begins Six Nations in February.
The move gives Frank Smith additional cover as Scotland props Nathan McBeth and Rory Sutherland are away on international duty and Lyons has already arrived in Glasgow before linking up with the squad.
“I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to move from Griquas to Glasgow Warriors,” Lyons told glasgowwarriors.org.
“This is a special next step in my career and I look forward to accepting the challenge, learning from the environment and contributing to the team in any way possible.
“I am ready to bring my physicality, adaptability and work ethic to the group, while doing everything possible to help the team achieve its goals.
“I’m really grateful for the trust and the opportunity, and I can’t wait to get started, represent Glasgow Warriors with pride and give everything I’ve got for the shirt.”
Smith added: “With both Nathan McBeth and Rory Sutherland currently in the Scotland set-up, we are delighted to add a player and individual of Leon’s caliber to our playing group to give us additional depth in the front row.
“He is someone who wants to work hard and become a Glasgow Warrior and his enthusiasm to get involved has been evident throughout our discussions so far.
“He will also provide a strong role model for our young forwards such as Jake Shearer and Ollie McKenna, giving them an additional experienced professional to learn from as they continue to develop.”
