Grayson now has Japan in his sights

THE demise of Wasps, Warriors Worcester and London Irish has left just 10 starting fly-half spots across a congested Premiership, leaving the likes of Japan hopeful James Grayson to opt for a new challenge in a thriving domestic league.

- BEN JAYCOCK

Grayson, 25, departed his boyhood club Northampton Saints in November to pursue a playing opportunity in Japan Rugby League One with Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars.

The son of 2003 World Cup-winning fly-half Deal her found his foot  Paul has found his feet in the Far East making seven appearances and helping his new side secure a club record five victories in the Japanese top flight, with five games to spare.

The former England U20s playmaker originally signed on a one-year deal but has extended it for two more years in Sagamihara, with the hope of one day representing Japan down the line.

Grayson told The Rugby Paper: "I've been really impressed with the standard of this league. I came into the unknown as I hadn't watched much of the league but I knew about the high calibre of internationals over here.