Former Quin Charlie Amesbury will take a two-month break from top flight rugby in a bid to land a Cambridge Blue.
The Bristol winger, who started his career at the Stoop, is studying an Mst in social innovation - will return to Bristol Rugby following the end of the academic term in December.
Current Quins centre Jamie Roberts did the same last term as he appeared in the Varsity match for the Light Blues at Twickenham - which ended in a 12-6 win for the Dark Blues.
Planning ahead: Charlie Amesbury is taking the chance to study at Cambridge University while with Premiership strugglers Bristol
“Charlie heads to Cambridge University with our blessing. It’s important that he does this and it’s right for his development as a person and a player,” said Bristol director of rugby Andy Robinson.
“This was part of our agreement with Charlie when he re-signed to the club at the beginning of the year and he has our full support in pursuing his ambition to experience Cambridge University.”
Amesbury, who has made two Premiership appearances so far this season, will be monitored by Bristol’s medical and strength and conditioning department while he lives and studies at Queens' College.
He said: “I value the support from Andy [Robinson] and the coaching team in allowing me to go to Cambridge University until December.
"It’s a decision that I did not take lightly, but something I had committed to doing from last year.
“It’s a privilege to be able to study and play at Cambridge University and an opportunity that I am excited about.
"I’ll be following the progress of the lads here closely and will be working hard to get back into the starting team upon my return in December.”
Settled: Quins back rower Matt Luamanu, who has had his injury problems since arriving at the club last year, has signed a new deal at the Stoop
Meanwhile, Quins, smashed 47-18 at Wasps on Sunday, have confirmed Matt Luamanu has signed a new contract with the club.
“I am very pleased that Mat has committed to the club going forward," said director of rugby John Kingston.
"He has made a considerable impact with his physical presence and his professional approach to the game. There is far more to come from him and I am delighted it will be in a Harlequins shirt.”
The New Zealand-born former Auckland Blue added: “I am delighted to extend my contract with Harlequins and I’m really excited about moving forward with this extremely talented group of players.
"My family and I feel very much at home here and I would like to thank the club for their support.”
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