Edinburgh confirm signing of ex-England U20 star James Grayson

English stand-off James Grayson will join Edinburgh this summer from Japan Rugby League One side Mitsubishi Dynaboars, as first reported by RugbyPass on Thursday.

The 27-year-old has agreed a one-year deal at Hive Stadium. The son of ex-England international Paul, the former age-grade star is set to compete with Ross Thompson and Cammy Scott for the Edinburgh No.10 jersey, with Ben Healy leaving this summer for Ronan O’Gara’s La Rochelle. 

“I’m delighted to have signed with Edinburgh for next season. After three years overseas, the time feels right to return closer to home, and the opportunity to play in the URC was a big factor in my decision,” Grayson said.

“It’s also a special moment for me and my family – my great granny was a very proud Scottish lady, and I know she would have been delighted to see me make this move.

“I’m really looking forward to getting started, competing with the squad, and creating special memories in front of the supporters.

“Having watched a number of games, the Hive looks to have an incredible atmosphere, and I’m excited to experience that for myself.”

After making close to 100 appearances for boyhood club Northampton Saints and 48 more in Japan, Grayson arrives in the capital with extensive top-level experience and the ability to cover both fly-half and full-back.

“We’re really pleased to add James to the group,” said Edinburgh Rugby head coach Sean Everitt. “He’s an impressive player – someone who reads the game well and brings a real quality with the boot, both from hand and at goal.

“He’s played a huge amount of rugby at a high level, first with Northampton in the Premiership and then across three seasons in Japan, and we think that experience will allow him to hit the ground running when he arrives.

“He’ll come in and challenge for the ten jersey, and that competition for places will be good for the squad.”

Grayson, an England age-grade international from U16 to U20 level, spent seven seasons at Northampton before moving to Japan in 2023, where his first full campaign saw him start every league match and score 148 points.

“I’m excited about the challenge ahead,” Grayson added. “New competition, a new environment and a strong group of players – it’s exactly what I was looking for at this stage of my career.”