Taj Annan has signed with the Western Force for the 2026 Super Rugby season, with an option for another year, after mutually terminating his contract with the NRL's Newcastle Knights. The 22-year-old utility back, who had one year remaining on a three-year deal, was quickly picked up by Force coach Simon Cron.
Annan's departure from the Knights opened a spot in the club's top 30, which has been filled by former Roosters half Sandon Smith. Annan's agent, Nathan McCullum, said the deal was structured in the player's favour and that the Force opportunity was a welcome development after a difficult season.
Annan, a Merewether-Carlton junior, started training with the Perth franchise last week. He previously played two seasons for the Queensland Reds and represented Australia at the under-20 rugby world championships in 2023. At the Knights, he struggled with a quad injury and played 14 NSW Cup games, scoring five tries, but never settled in a position.
In an Instagram post, Annan described the season as full of ups and downs, citing injury, code adaptation challenges, and self-doubt. He said he found his rhythm only at the end of the season and is grateful for the support from teammates. McCullum noted that Annan is now as fit as he has been heading into a preseason, both physically and mentally stronger from the experience.
Annan is the second rugby convert to leave the Knights; prop Tyrone Thompson, who played three NRL games, has joined New Zealand Super Rugby side the Chiefs. Meanwhile, New Zealand schoolboys rugby back-rower Tom Perkins signed a four-year deal with the Knights but is not in the top 30.
The Force boast a strong squad including Wallabies Ben Donaldson, Carlo Tizzano, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Darcy Swain, Dylan Pietsch, Jeremy Williams, and Nick Champion de Crespigny. Hunter product Harry Johnson Holmes is returning from a ruptured Achilles, and former Wallabies halfback Nic White is on the coaching staff.
