Grayson marks Edinburgh debut with six goals in bonus-point win over Ulster

James Grayson announced himself at Edinburgh with a composed debut performance, landing six shots at goal as his new club defeated Ulster 34-29 in Belfast on Friday night to claim a bonus-point win in their opening United Rugby Championship fixture.

The 28-year-old fly-half joined Edinburgh from Japanese club Mitsubishi Dynaboars this summer, having previously spent a long spell with Northampton Saints. His tactical control at No 10 was a feature of a notable away victory that sets Edinburgh up well in the early URC standings.

The move came after what Grayson described as a hectic few months. “I was injured at the start of pre-season and then I got married, so it was a whole whirlwind of a summer,” he said. “I probably didn’t envisage the wedding being in the middle of pre-season when we booked it just over a year ago. But the club were brilliant in allowing me a couple of days off either end to get everything sorted.”

With his wife now settled in Edinburgh, Grayson said the couple are ready to embrace the move fully. “Now my wife has moved up, I feel like we can really dig our teeth into this next chapter. I’ve got a ring to wear and so has she, so we are both really happy.”

The son of former England international Paul Grayson, he earned caps for England at Under-20 level before his move to Japan, where he spent three years living in Fujisawa, near Tokyo. He reflected warmly on that chapter. “I loved it and played loads more rugby than I did at Northampton. As a club, Mitsubishi beat some teams they had never beaten before while I was there and we had our highest finish in the league, which was amazing to be a part of.”

On his decision to join Edinburgh specifically, Grayson cited both personal and professional reasons. “Firstly, I thought what a brilliant place to come and play rugby. Once I did a bit more looking into the league and the club, it looked like a really good opportunity for me playing-wise. I think there’s a lot of potential in the squad.”

A family connection to Scotland also played a part. “It’s also special 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.”

Having returned to European rugby after three years away, Grayson is focused on establishing himself as first-choice fly-half. “Coming back to Europe and trying to fight to be first choice 10 at a brilliant club is something that excited me,” he said. “It’s been really good to settle in, get my feet on the ground, and get stuck in with everyone. I am enjoying it.”