The Western Force has confirmed the re-signing of Australian-qualified playmaker Alex Harford on a two-year deal.
Harford joined the Force on an injury cover contract midway through the season after impressing for NPC clubs Canterbury and Auckland.
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The 26-year-old was thrust straight into the starting side on debut against the Fijian Drua before earning the starting nod against the British & Irish Lions.
“We’re constantly tracking Australian qualified players worldwide and what they’re doing, which is how we found Alex,” coach Simon Cron said.
"Alex has good core skills and the ability to manage a game. In our game against the Drua he showed he can use his kicking game to put us in the right parts of the park and his passing game to attack space.
"We are really thrilled to be adding him to our squad and continuing to build squad depth for 2026 and beyond.”
The New Zealand-born playmaker is Australian qualified through his grandparents and has family in Perth.
Having dealt with injuries over the past 12 months, Harford was pleased to secure his future in the west.
“I’m absolutely stoked to sign on, especially with how much I’ve enjoyed the last few months as an injury replacement,” Harford said.
“The opportunity to move to Perth and challenge myself has been really positive. The Force are building something really special here and I want to be a part of it.
“The depth in the squad is great. I’ve been really impressed with the coaching staff who are really good.
“The gameplan fits my style well and the way I want to play, so I’m thrilled to be staying around.”
Harford told rugby.com.au of his desires to stay at the club last month, originally spotted by former Blues coach Leon MacDonald.
“It wasn't just a stop-over destination. It's somewhere that I'd really like to be long-term," he said.
“I really like the direction of the Force and Australian rugby. It's cool to be involved.”
