Will Jordan grew up practising his chip-and-chase moves in his back yard, dreaming of the day he might play for New Zealand. On Saturday, that kid from the backyard became the greatest try-scorer in All Blacks history.
Jordan crossed the line three times in the first half against Italy, racking up his 50th career try in just his 56th international match. The 28-year-old's hat-trick helped New Zealand beat Italy 47-17 at Wellington Regional Stadium, cementing his place at the top of the scoring charts. He now has one more try than Doug Howlett, who held the record for years before Jordan surpassed him.
The record-breaking moment came with the crowd on their feet. "To think I'd be here today, it's hugely humbling," Jordan said after the match. "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."
Saturday's match was a dominant team performance. New Zealand crossed the line seven times in total, with Sam Darry, Cam Roigard, Ethan de Groot, and Tupou Vaa'i also touching down. Italy managed two tries of their own through Tommaso Menoncello and Leonardo Marin, but the match turned further against them when Italy lock Niccolò Cannone was sent off after 51 minutes. Cannone was first shown a yellow card for headbutting Roigard, but officials reviewing the incident on video upgraded it to a red card, meaning Italy finished the game with 14 players.
For Jordan, the milestone marks the culmination of years of hard work since those backyard dreams. He has averaged nearly a try per game throughout his international career, a scoring rate that ranks among the best in rugby history. The achievement is especially remarkable given how rare it is to score even one try at the international level, let alone 50. His speed, positioning, and nose for the try line have made him one of the most feared finishers in the game.
As New Zealand continues its campaign, Jordan's record stands as a reminder that big dreams — the kind practiced in a backyard with a chip-and-chase — can become extraordinary realities.