Ulster confirm signing of Irish qualified lock Kieran Treadwell from Harlequins

Ulster confirmed the second row would join them from English Premiership side Harlequins on a two-year deal.

Treadwell is Irish quailied through his mother and has represented Ireland at underage level, capped four times with the Irish U18 side.

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 Director of Rugby Les Kiss, welcomed the news amd added: “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 club level but 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 that has a natural athletic ability that belies is size.

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