Force in Wallaby coup
Wallaby utility back Sam Norton-Knight will depart Japan to join Australia's Western Force for two seasons.
The 28-year-old, who played five seasons with the Brumbies and Waratahs, left to join the Cardiff Blues in 2009 before moving on to the Wild Knights in Japan the following year.
Apart from his 57 Super Rugby caps, he also played twice for the Wallabies, in 2007 against Wales and Fiji.
Norton-Knight, who can cover flyhalf, fullback and inside centre, said he wanted to test himself again in Super Rugby.
"I will have been away for four seasons and the timing was right to come back to Australia and I'm really excited about this opportunity that's been presented at the Force," he said.
"I'm very keen to test myself in Super Rugby again, particularly with the British and Irish Lions touring here next year.
"There are a number of players who have had success after coming back from Japan to play in Australia and this only confirmed my decision to return.
"This wasn't an opportunity I thought I'd have when I left in 2009," he added.
"I will have been away for four seasons and the timing was right to come back to Australia and I'm really excited about this opportunity that's been presented at the Force.
"I'm really looking forward to the challenge as I'm enjoying my rugby now more than I probably have before.
"There is a phenomenal culture and training regime in these Japanese sides, and it's taught me that the more you put in, the more you'll enjoy your rugby. It's also been fantastic playing under [former All Black flyhalf] Tony Brown, who's probably had more of an influence on my game than anyone else."
Norton-Knight says he's looking forward to donning the Western Force colours and enjoying the lifestyle on offer in Perth.
"I've been to Perth a number of times and I've always loved it there," he said.
"I've also kept in touch with guys like Brett Sheehan, who not only says it's a great place to live but a fantastic place to play your footy as well.
"When I played Super Rugby, of all the Australian teams, the Force was always one of the toughest and a team I didn't particularly enjoy playing against. Those are the teams you want to be playing for and obviously we'll be doing what we can to make life difficult for other teams on the field next year."
RugbyWA CEO Vern Reid says in addition to his on-field performances, Norton-Knight will play a crucial role as a senior member of the Western Force.
"Sam comes to us with considerable rugby knowledge and as a well-travelled footballer," he said. "He's been a part of a number of successful sides, including starting for the Waratahs in their 2008 Super 14 final and winning a Top League premiership in Japan.
"He's a versatile player with a first-class running, kicking and passing game and he's got a lot to offer this side in 2013.
"Through the recruitment of Sias Ebersohn and Junior Rasolea we have some outstanding young talent, but it's important to balance that with experience which is something Sam certainly provides. Not only has he played at Test level but he's had significant experience in this competition and overseas which can only benefit him as a player as well as the broader development of the team."
