​Will Jordan surpassed Doug Howlett to become the All Blacks’ all-time leading try-scorer with a hat-trick against Italy, chalking up Test tries numbers 48, 49, and 50 in his 56th appearance. The dazzling treble in Wellington propelled Jordan past the long-standing record held by former full-back Howlett, as New Zealand pulled away in front of their home crowd. At 28 years old, Jordan burst into the right corner to complete his hat-trick, bringing his career total to fifty-five or more in that moment, and reaffirming his status as a near-unstoppable force for the All Blacks. The record was long in the making and had become one of the most debated milestones in New Zealand rugby, with several greats such as Joe Rokocoko and Julian Savea, both tied on 46 tries at various points, coming close but ultimately falling short of the podium. Beauden Barrett sits close behind on 45 tries, highlighting the extraordinary line of finishers who have graced New Zealand rugby over the past two decades.
Jordan’s progress toward the all-time record has been a storyline of its own since his Tasman and Crusaders days, where he emerged as a versatile back capable of filling multiple backline roles. Regularly deployed on the wing and frequently lined up at fullback since his debut, he has long been hailed as the player most likely to topple the record. The left-field celebration after the milestone score—a shark-fin salute nodding to the Mako—added a personal touch to a moment that felt almost inevitable for those who have followed his career.
As the competition continues, Jordan looks poised to continue climbing the all-time Test try-scoring leaderboard. The global benchmark remains Japan’s Daisuke Ohata, who holds 69 international tries, though some of Ohata’s scores came in matches that are subject to debate regarding Test status. South Africa’s Bryan Habana is next in line with 67 tries across 124 Test caps, a mark that has stood as a benchmark for centuries in international rugby.
Jordan’s breakthrough as the most prolific All Black scorer is likely to accelerate his ascent further, given his form and the trust placed in him by the coaching staff. The record is now firmly within reach, and if his current trajectory continues, he could extend his lead even further in the coming seasons, establishing himself as a permanent fixture in rugby’s all-time scoring pantheon. The historical context of the achievement reflects New Zealand’s enduring strength in backline talent, with the All Blacks consistently producing players capable of finishing decisive opportunities when it matters most.