Former England Under-20 star Jamie Benson has switched his international focus to Ireland after earning a shock call-up from Andy Farrell.

The 24-year-old has been named in Ireland's 36-man squad for November's Nations Championship.

Benson, who joined Ulster from Harlequins this summer, qualifies through his Belfast-born mother.

He previously represented England at Under-20 level and was also named in an England A squad.

However, he never played for England A or the senior side.

That has now opened the door to Ireland. And Farrell has wasted little time in taking a look.

Former England star earns Ireland call-up

Benson spent four seasons at Harlequins, where he made 44 senior appearances.

But breaking into the side at fly-half was never going to be easy.

Not with Marcus Smith around.

Benson made 19 appearances last season, but only five came in his preferred number 10 shirt.

As RUCK reported in April, Benson then agreed a move to Ulster.

He has hit the ground running.

The versatile back has played all four of the province's competitive matches this season.

He has featured at fly-half and in both centre positions.

His form has now earned him a place in Farrell's plans.

Speaking after confirming his Ireland squad, Farrell revealed Benson had already caught his eye.

"Jamie Benson came into camp with us in the summer before we went away, so it was great to get to know him and see what he's all about."

"But he started the season really well in a few different positions for Ulster, so that shows his versatility."

Ireland injury crisis opens the door

Benson's call-up comes at a difficult time for Ireland.

Jack Crowley and Harry Byrne are both ruled out through injury.

That leaves Benson competing with Sam Prendergast and Ciarán Frawley for a place at fly-half.

He is one of two uncapped players in Farrell's squad.

Ulster back-row James McNabney has also earned his first senior call-up.

Meanwhile, captain Caelan Doris and Jack Conan are among the big names missing.

RUCK previously reported Conan's injury setback, which has added to Farrell's problems.

Dan Sheehan will lead Ireland in their absence.

Benson could make his senior debut against Argentina, Fiji or South Africa next month.

And with the 2027 Rugby World Cup less than a year away, his timing could hardly be better.

Five facts about Jamie Benson

1. He played for England: Benson represented England Under-20s and was later included in an England A squad.

2. His Irish roots: He qualifies for Ireland through his mother, who was born in Belfast.

3. He studied neuroscience: Benson combined professional rugby with a neuroscience degree at Cambridge University.

4. He can play four positions: The former Harlequins man can cover fly-half, both centre roles and full-back.

5. He scored a hat-trick: Benson crossed three times for Harlequins against Newcastle Red Bulls last season.

6. He's a published researcher: Benson co-authored a scientific study on how rugby training affects the knee-jerk reflex. The research was published in the medical journal Cureus in February 2026.

Ireland's Nations Championship fixtures

• Friday, 6 November: Ireland v Argentina
• Saturday, 14 November: Ireland v Fiji
• Saturday, 21 November: Ireland v South Africa
• 27–29 November: Nations Championship Finals Weekend, London

Ireland will be hoping Benson can make an instant impact.

For now, the former England youngster has a new international opportunity. Whether he wins his first Test cap remains to be seen.