Atkinson first played rugby at Oxford RFC, aged five.[3] He was educated at Abingdon School from 2013 until 2020 and played in the first XV rugby team.[4][5] Atkinson played twice for England U-18.[3]
Rugby playing career
In 2020 Atkinson signed for Wasps on a three-year contract.[6]
He is known for beating defenders, try scoring, and also for physical commitment in defence.[7][8]
Following Wasps administration in October 2022, Atkinson signed a "long term" contract with Leicester Tigers on 31 October 2022.[15] He made his debut as a replacement in Tigers 1 point defeat away to Bath on 11 November 2022. After 24 appearances for Leicester, on Christmas Eve 2023 Atkinson moved to Gloucester.[16]
In February 2024 Atkinson started for England A scoring four points in a victory over Portugal.[17]