The Western Force have signed former NSW Waratahs utility back Sam Harris for the 2010 Super 14 season.

The 29-year-old, who can play inside centre or flyhalf, debuted for the Waratahs in 2001 and notched 13 caps in his first two Super seasons.

Harris broke into the Australia A set-up in 2002 but decided to try his luck in rugby league, where he played the next four seasons - three with Manly and one with West Tigers.

But after 64 first grade appearances he returned to the Waratahs for the 2007 and 2008 campaigns before linking up with Japanese side Honda Heat last season.

Harris recently returned to Sydney to join Warringah, forming a halves combination with new Force recruit Brett Sheehan.

The 190cm, 103kg back said he had taken a liking to the No.10 jersey after spending most of his career at inside centre.

"I was kind of pushed into (flyhalf) originally when 'Hangers' (Daniel Halangahu) and Kurtley (Beale) were injured during my last year with the Waratahs, but I played fulltime in the position with Honda and probably now consider it my best position," Harris said.

"My communication is certainly a strength and I've enjoyed getting my hands on the ball more often, whereas in the past I've probably been more comfortable at inside centre."

But Harris faces an uphill battle in his bid to earn a starting berth at the Force, with former Springboks flyhalf Andre Pretorius the club's first-choice No.10.

Force rugby manager Mitch Hardy said Harris would give the team great depth.

"He's a very strong man and has that directness which enables him to play in both centre positions, but is also a creative player who has had a lot of success at flyhalf during his recent stint in Japan and at club level for Warringah," Hardy said.

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