LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

Blues or Kiwi Ferns? Why Rima wants to do both

Rima Butler, eligible to play for both NSW and New Zealand, is advocating for a change in the women's international eligibility rules as she faces a tough decision regarding her representative future.

In her first season of a two-year contract with the Sydney Roosters, Butler has established herself as one of the most formidable forwards in the NRLW.

Partnering effectively with Kiwi Ferns prop Otesa Pule, Butler has significantly contributed to the Roosters' pursuit of an undefeated regular season.

Now in her fourth season of NRLW, following stints with Parramatta and Newcastle, Butler has impressively scored five tries for the Roosters, surpassing her previous total from earlier seasons.

Having participated in two grand finals, including a championship victory with the Knights in 2023, Butler has nearly realized all that the NRLW has to offer and is now seeking representative honors.

However, the Minto-born forward faces the challenging decision of whether to represent New Zealand or pursue her State of Origin aspirations.

Butler hopes to achieve both if the International Rugby League eliminates the tiering system in women's rugby, which would help enhance England's competitiveness following their significant 90-4 loss to the Jillaroos in Las Vegas.