Introduction
David Patrick Lindsay James "Paddy" Jackson (born 5 January 1992 in Belfast) is an international rugby union player for Ireland. He primarily plays at fly-half for Irish provincial side Ulster in the Pro12.
Jackson has captained the Ireland under-20 team. He made his competitive debut for Ulster Rugby against Llanelli Scarlets on 18 February 2011 when Ulster rugby got an 18-16 win. and first came to broader prominence when selected to start in Ulster's Heineken Cup semi-final against Edinburgh on 28 April 2012. Jackson credits his early years in Birmingham playing for Veseyans Rugby club as his motivation to play rugby over football.Outside of rugby his pastimes include playing the tuba which he played regularly in his school band.
Ulster
Jackson made a surprise debut as the starting outhalf against Scarlets in February 2011. The young playmaker had represented Ireland at a number of levels and was included in the Ireland Junior World Championship squad in 2011.
Jackson usually plays at fly-half but can also play at inside centre. Jackson played arguably his best game against Connacht Rugby in 2012 when he scored a try, a conversion and three penalties. He earned his place then in the starting lineups including the defeat to Leinster Rugby and then the Heineken Cup 22-19 win over Edinburgh Rugby. Jackson has also taken part in the Ireland under 20 team. Jackson also scored a try against Aironi in a 46-20 win in the Heineken Cup group stage.
Ireland
Jackson made his senior debut for Ireland on 24 February 2013, starting against Scotland in the 2013 Six Nations Championship,