Canberra Raiders are pleased to announce the signing of forward for the next two seasons

Kukutai’s sporting career started in Netball, playing in the ANZ Premiership competition for the Mystics and Magic.

The 29-year-old then transitioned to Rugby Union, spending time in the NZ Sevens system as well as playing two seasons with Chiefs Manawa in the Super Rugby Aupiki competition.

Kukutai’s signing completes the Raiders Top 24 squad ahead of the NRLW season starting on July 4.

Raiders NRLW Coach Darrin Borthwick said he is looking forward to coaching Kukutai and seeing her continue her rugby league journey.

“Grace will add to the strength of our forward pack, she’ll add depth and pressure which is good,” Borthwick said.

“She’s done quite well up at the Knights and given her background in multiple sports, she’ll be quite handy for us. She’ll be a good addition to the squad.

“She’s someone who has got a lot of values and holds her standards quite high.”

Kukutai says she’s excited for the opportunity to join the Raiders and make the move to Canberra.

“I’m really excited to work with Bortho and the girls have been lovely and the organisation has been great,” Kukutai said.

“I’m also really excited to play with people like Simaima and the quality of players here.

“I’ve only had one session with the squad and I’ve already learnt lots.

“That’s something I’m really looking forward to, being involved close to the ball with someone like Simaima is exciting.”