Harlequins youngster Kieran Treadwell to join Ulster

ENGLAND under-20 second row Kieran Treadwell will join Ulster on a two-year deal from Harlequins this summer.

Treadwell, who also qualifies for Ireland through his mother and has represented the country at under-18 level, has made five senior appearances for ‘Quins.

He joined the Harlequins Academy ahead of the 2014/15 season and made his senior debut for the club in the LV= Cup match against Cardiff Blues in 2014.

The 6’5” youngster was also a member of the England squad that won the U20 Six Nations Championship last March.

Commenting on the decision to join Ulster, Treadwell said: "I'm really excited about the opportunity that lies ahead with Ulster.

“They are an ambitious club with lots of young talent coming through into the first team, a number of whom I played both alongside and against for Ireland U18s and England U20s.

“There is also a very clear pathway for me at Ulster if I work hard and impress the coaching staff.

"I want to thank Harlequins for all the time and effort they have put into developing and supporting me as a young player.

“As a result, this was a very difficult decision to make but one that I feel is right at this stage of my career. I wish Harlequins plenty of success over the coming years.”

Ulster's Director of Rugby, Les Kiss, also welcomed the news.

"Securing someone of Kieran's ability and potential is hugely exciting for Ulster Rugby. It is key for us that we are not only successful at provincial level, but that we can produce viable candidates for the national team.

“We believe that Kieran has the goods to deliver this. He is a big, uncompromising ball-carrier and he has a natural athletic ability that belies his size.

"Having already gained experience of calling lineouts, he is a natural leader who will develop further and become an integral part of our squad.”