Will Jordan has etched his name into All Blacks history after becoming the team’s all-time leading try scorer in a commanding victory over Italy in Wellington, as New Zealand continued its unbeaten start to the inaugural Nations Championship.
Jordan crossed three times during the match to surpass Doug Howlett’s long-standing record of 49 Test tries, reaching the milestone in remarkable fashion and further cementing his reputation as one of world rugby’s most prolific finishers. Just days earlier, he had entered the match needing three tries to break the record after another outstanding performance against France.
The All Blacks produced another clinical display, overwhelming Italy with their pace, power and precision. Their forwards laid the platform through dominant set-piece play and physical defence, while the backline capitalised on quick ball movement to expose gaps throughout the Italian defensive line.
Jordan’s record-breaking performance headlined an attacking masterclass, but the victory reflected a complete team effort. New Zealand controlled possession, won the territorial battle and consistently converted pressure into points as Italy struggled to contain the home side’s relentless intensity.
The result strengthens the All Blacks’ position in the inaugural Nations Championship, with Scott Robertson’s side continuing to build momentum after opening the campaign with a hard-fought win over France. Confidence is growing as combinations continue to develop ahead of tougher challenges later in the tournament.
For Jordan, the achievement comes despite injury interruptions that have limited his appearances over recent seasons. His remarkable strike rate has seen him reach the top of the All Blacks’ all-time try-scoring list in significantly fewer Test matches than many of the great finishers who came before him, underlining his extraordinary consistency whenever he has pulled on the black jersey.
Italy showed moments of attacking intent but were unable to match New Zealand’s speed of execution or defensive pressure. Errors under pressure proved costly as the All Blacks repeatedly turned turnovers and field position into scoring opportunities.
With history now rewritten, Jordan will turn his attention to extending the record as the All Blacks continue their Nations Championship campaign. For New Zealand, the performance was another reminder of the depth, attacking flair and finishing ability that continues to make them one of world rugby’s benchmark teams.
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