Will Jordan makes All Blacks history, ending a 19-year wait with record-breaking try
The electric fullback rewrites New Zealand rugby history, becoming the All Blacks' leading Test try scorer in a landmark moment.
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND — In a moment that will echo through New Zealand rugby history, Will Jordan etched his name into the All Blacks record books on Saturday night. The 28-year-old Crusaders wing scored a hat trick in New Zealand’s commanding 47-17 victory over Italy at Sky Stadium, becoming the all-time leading try-scorer for the black jersey with his 50th Test try. It was a milestone that had eluded the nation’s greatest finishers for nearly two decades.
Doug Howlett’s mark of 49 tries, set back in 2007, had stood as a formidable benchmark—the longest-standing try-scoring record in All Blacks history. Jordan needed just 56 Tests to surpass it, underlining his extraordinary efficiency and clinical finishing. In a match that began with an early Italian shock—a third-minute try that briefly silenced the home crowd—the All Blacks eventually found their rhythm. After a tight first half, they pulled away in the second, especially after Italy was reduced to 14 players following a red card. Jordan’s tries, including the record-breaker, sparked jubilant scenes as teammates mobbed the modest star from Christchurch.
For Jordan, who made his All Blacks debut in 2020, this achievement feels like the pinnacle of years of dedication. Known for his blistering pace, aerial ability, and uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right moment, he has become the cornerstone of New Zealand’s attack. His journey began with Tasman in the provincial ranks and quickly flourished with the Crusaders, where he helped secure titles and honed his craft under high-pressure environments. By the time he pulled on the black jersey, expectations were sky-high, and he has rarely disappointed.
Will Jordan of New Zealand runs in to score his team's sixth try during the Nations Championship match between New Zealand All Blacks and Italy at Hnry Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Wellington, New Zealand. Morgan Hancock – Nations Championship/Nations Championship via Getty Images
What sets Jordan apart is not just the volume of tries but the manner in which he scores them. Whether it’s a soaring catch followed by a powerful fend, a slick support line in broken play, or a trademark finish in the corner, his contributions have been match-defining. In this latest outing, his hat trick capped a dominant performance that earned him player of the match honors. Teammates like Caleb Delany and Cam Roigard also crossed the line, but all eyes were on Jordan as he broke clear for the historic score.
After the game, Jordan spoke with characteristic humility amid the celebrations. “It’s a special moment, but records like this are about the team,” said Jordan. “I’ve been lucky to play alongside some incredible players who create the opportunities and the coaches who trust me to do my job. Doug Howlett is a legend, and to be mentioned in the same breath as him and all the greats who’ve worn this jersey is humbling. I’m just grateful to keep contributing for the All Blacks.”
The win keeps New Zealand unbeaten in the early stages of the 2026 Nations Championship, sending a strong message to their upcoming opponents. For fans packed into Sky Stadium—known locally as the Cake Tin—the night was electric. Chants of “Jordan! Jordan!” rang out as fireworks lit up the Wellington sky, a fitting tribute to a player who has redefined excellence in the backline.
Jordan’s record-breaking feat arrives at a time when the All Blacks are rebuilding and reasserting their dominance on the world stage. His try-scoring ratio of nearly 0.9 per Test is unmatched among modern greats, surpassing even the likes of Christian Cullen, Joe Rokocoko, and Julian Savea. At just 28, he shows no signs of slowing down, already drawing comparisons to the very best fullbacks and wings the game has seen.
Off the field, Jordan remains grounded. Those close to him speak of a quiet, hardworking family man whose rugby passion is matched by his love for the outdoors and simple life back home. In an era of intense scrutiny and sky-high expectations, his consistency and team-first attitude have made him a role model for aspiring young players across New Zealand.
As the All Blacks look ahead, Jordan’s milestone serves as both celebration and motivation. It ends a 19-year wait but opens a new chapter in what promises to be a record-shattering career. For now, though, the focus remains on the next challenge—and the next chance for Will Jordan to light up the big stage in black.