Will Jordan didn't only break New Zealand's all-time try-scoring record against Italy, he smashed it with a stunning hat-trick as the All Blacks dominated 47-17 in the Nations Championship. This 28-year-old is now sitting on 50 tries in just 56 Tests, soaring past legend Doug Howlett to stand alone at the top.
A Record-Shattering Display
Jordan's performance at Wellington Regional Stadium was pure magic, hitting three scores and cementing his place in rugby history. "It's special," Jordan said after the game. "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." He debuted for New Zealand in 2020 and has been on a tear ever since, making this milestone feel earned. He also added, "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." That's the kind of humility you love to see from a guy who just rewrote the record books.All Blacks Explode After Early Scare
While Jordan was busy making history, the All Blacks were busy dismantling Italy. The final score of 47-17 tells you most of the story, but it wasn't a runaway from the start. Italy's Tommaso Menoncello actually put them in front early on, which had to be a wake-up call for New Zealand. But Sam Darry and Jordan quickly answered, grabbing tries that pushed the All Blacks to a 14-10 halftime lead. The second half saw a complete explosion. Cam Roigard, Ethan de Groot, and Jordan's second try extended the lead to 33-10. Italy's Niccolo Cannone didn't help their cause either, getting red-carded in the 51st minute for headbutting Roigard. That happened right in the build-up to Jordan's second score. After Jordan secured his record-breaking third try, and Leonardo Marin crossed for Italy, Tupou Vaa'i put the exclamation point on it with a seventh try for the All Blacks late in the game.Strong Start for the Inaugural Championship
This massive win wasn't a fluke, either. It follows New Zealand's hard-fought 34-32 victory over France last week in their opening game of this inaugural 12-team Nations Championship. Under new coach Dave Rennie, the All Blacks are showing they mean business right out of the gate. Italy, on the other hand, is struggling, coming off a 27-10 defeat by Japan. For Jordan and the All Blacks, this is a statement win in a brand new tournament, and they're setting the pace early. You have to wonder what else this team has in store as the Nations Championship continues.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.