Ulster Rugby: Province sign Irish-qualified fly-half Jamie Benson

Ulster have confirmed the signing of Jamie Benson on a two-year deal.

The versatile 23-year-old can play at fly-half, centre or full-back and will arrive before the 2026-27 season from Premiership club Harlequins, where he graduated from the academy system.

Irish-qualified through relatives in Belfast, Benson has represented England at U18 and U20 level, while he was selected in a wider England A squad earlier this season.

In his senior debut for Quins in 2021, Benson kicked a last-gasp conversion in the Premiership Cup against Northampton Saints.

He made his Premiership debut in 2024, producing a player of the match performance against Saracens last season. This season, he scored his first Champions Cup try in the victory over Bayonne.

“It feels like a fantastic time to be joining Ulster Rugby,” said Benson.

“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.”

Ulster general manager Rory Best said Benson’s arrival will add further competition for places in the squad.

“We are delighted to be signing a player of Jamie’s quality as we build our squad ahead of next season,” Best said.

“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 back line 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.”

Benson will become the fourth new arrival at Ulster who have already confirmed the signings of Eli Snyman, Ben Donnell and Matt Devine.