Written by Matt Brown
📸 @tntsports
​In the latest wave of big names joining the JAECOO PWR, former Black Ferns World Cup winner Ruby Tui has signed for Trailfinders.
The 34-year-old played her first game of 15s in almost a year when she represented the Barbarians against Wales at Allianz Stadium back in June. While it appeared then that she was considering retirement, she is now set to remain in London.
​In an interview with Sarah Rendell of The Telegraph, Tui revealed that two of women’s rugby’s biggest names helped convince her not to hang up her boots: former international teammate Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and soon-to-be club teammate Meg Jones.
​Tui brings a wealth of experience to Ealing after a sensational career with the Black Ferns in both 15s and rugby sevens, where she was a serial winner.
​Trailfinders fell just short in the PWR final last time out, beaten 52–14 by a clinical Saracens side at the Twickenham Stoop. Many were surprised to see the West Londoners reach the showpiece match, having faced defending champions Gloucester-Hartpury in the semi-finals, but they earned a monumental victory over the Cherry and Whites to book their spot.
​Barney Maddison’s side has strengthened significantly during the off-season. Notable arrivals include Helen Nelson and Bo Westcombe-Evans, who both join from Loughborough Lightning, while former Harlequins lock Teya Ashworth returns to the league following a spell in Canada. Perhaps most importantly, Trailfinders has also managed to retain England internationals Abi Burton and Haidee Head.
​Trailfinders kick off their season with a trip to Loughborough Lightning on Friday, 20th November in what promises to be an exciting clash, before welcoming Harlequins for a London derby a week later
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