Will Jordan breaks All Blacks try-scoring record in 47-17 win over Italy

Will Jordan etched his name into the history books on Saturday, 11 July 2026, becoming the highest try-scorer in the history of the All Blacks. The 28-year-old winger achieved the milestone during a 47-17 victory over Italy at Wellington Regional Stadium, bringing his career tally to 50 tries in 56 Test matches and surpassing the long-standing record previously held by Doug Howlett.

The achievement served as the centerpiece of a match that saw New Zealand maintain its unbeaten record in the inaugural 12-team Nations Championship. However, the result masked a challenging opening half for the home side under new coach Dave Rennie, who is currently managing his first campaign with the team.

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A Match of Two Halves

The encounter began with a defensive lapse from the All Blacks, as Italy’s Tommaso Menoncello capitalized on a turnover to score the opening try in the third minute. Despite an immediate response from lock Sam Darry, the hosts struggled with handling errors and discipline throughout the first period. Italy’s aggressive and physical defense held firm, leaving the scoreboard at a modest 14-10 in favor of New Zealand at the interval.

The second half saw a marked improvement in intensity, particularly from the All Blacks' bench. Debutant Josh Moorby and flanker Anton Segner—who became the first German-born player to represent the All Blacks—provided significant impact. The momentum shift was further aided by an Italian dismissal in the 51st minute. Prop Niccolo Cannone was initially issued a yellow card for headbutting Cam Roigard, which was subsequently upgraded to a red card by the Television Match Official, leaving Italy numerically disadvantaged for the remainder of the contest.

Record-Breaking Sequence

Jordan’s record-breaking night was fueled by a series of precise playmaking efforts, with second five-eighths Jordie Barrett heavily involved in the buildup to his tries. After scoring his first in the opening half, Jordan crossed twice in quick succession after the break. His third try, which cemented his position as the All Blacks' top try-scorer, arrived following a tapped penalty where he received a long pass from Barrett.

"It's special. I think back to when I was a kid, practising my chip-and-chase in the back yard. To think I'd be here today, it's hugely humbling. I've been part of some great teams over the last seven years and, in turn, I hope I've inspired some kids to practise their chip-and-chase, and dream big."

Will Jordan, All Blacks back, via Sports Yahoo

Beyond Jordan’s hat-trick, New Zealand’s scoring sheet included efforts from Sam Darry, Cam Roigard, Ethan de Groot, and Tupou Vaa’i. Italy’s Leonardo Marin added a second try for the visitors in the 58th minute, but the All Blacks were able to pull away, ultimately securing their second win of the competition following a narrow 34-32 victory against France in the opening round.

What to Watch Next

The All Blacks now prepare for a significant challenge at Eden Park next weekend, where they are scheduled to face Ireland. For Italy, the road ahead remains difficult following an 0-2 start to the championship, having suffered an earlier 27-10 defeat to Japan in Tokyo.

As the Nations Championship continues, questions remain regarding the consistency of the All Blacks' performance. While Jordan’s historic milestone provided a celebratory atmosphere in Wellington, coaching staff and analysts alike have pointed toward the team's ongoing issues with handling and discipline as areas requiring attention before the upcoming fixture against the Irish.