Ulster sign Irish-qualified out-half Jamie Benson from Harlequins

Benson said an ambition to play international rugby was part of his decision to leave Harlequins and join Ulster

Jamie Benson has represented England at under-18 and under-20 levels. Pic: ©INPHO/James Crombie

Ulster have signed Irish-qualified out-half Jamie Benson from Harlequins. The 23-year-old, who can also play at centre and full-back, has signed a two-year deal. He will move to the province ahead of the 2026/27 season. 

The Harlequins academy product, who has made 38 appearances for the club, is eligible to play for Ireland through his Belfast family connections. He has represented England at under-18 and under-20 levels, and was part of the England A setup earlier this year. 

"It feels like a fantastic time to be joining Ulster Rugby," he said.

"The team are playing an entertaining brand of rugby, which I am excited to be a part of.

"I have strong family connections to the province through my mum, who grew up in Belfast, and I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Benson said an ambition to play international rugby was part of his decision. 

“The decision to leave has not been one I have taken lightly," he said.

"I have always been driven to consistently test myself to play at the highest level and to pursue the goal of playing international rugby. I feel I am at a critical point in my career and that now is the right time for me to move in order to pursue these personal ambitions."

Ulster general manager Rory Best added: “We are delighted to be signing a player of Jamie’s quality as we build our squad ahead of next season.

“He has shown a lot of potential for Harlequins, performing well when given the opportunity and making an impact at PREM level and in the Champions Cup.

“Jamie brings quality and competition to our fly-half depth, and has that added strength of bringing versatility to the backline at inside centre or full-back.

“At 23 years old, he joins us with his best years ahead of him and we can’t wait to welcome him to Ulster this summer.”

Former Munster out-half Jake Flannery started for Ulster in the weekend's Challenge Cup victory over Ospreys while Jack Murphy, son of head coach Richie Murphy, stepped off the bench. James Humphreys, son of Ulster legend and current IRFU performance director David Humphreys, is also on the books at Ravenhill.