World Cup-winning New Zealand international Ruby Tui has signed a one-year deal with Trailfinders Women, the Premiership Women's Rugby finalists. The 34-year-old joins the club after a decorated career that includes a Rugby World Cup title in 2021, Olympic gold and silver medals in sevens, and the 2019 World Rugby women's sevens player of the year award.
Trailfinders head coach Barney Maddison highlighted Tui's extensive experience and leadership. "Ruby is one of the most respected figures in the women's game," Maddison stated on the club's website. "Her experience of winning at the very highest level, combined with the energy and leadership she brings off the pitch, will be an enormous asset to the squad as we push on from last season."
Tui was a crucial member of the New Zealand team that defeated England 34-31 in the 2021 Rugby World Cup final. Reflecting on her move, Tui expressed enthusiasm for the Women's Premiership. "I feel like I've seen a lot of women's rugby and it's the biggest and best women's comp in the world right now," she said. "The whole Trailfinders team have been so welcoming since I got here and watching them all last season had me fizzed about how they're playing game."