The rugby world is abuzz with excitement as Will Jordan, the All Blacks' try-scoring machine, has etched his name into the history books. In a thrilling encounter against Ireland at Eden Park, Jordan's 'freebie' try not only secured a comfortable 40-21 victory for the All Blacks but also cemented his place as the first New Zealander to reach the remarkable 51-try milestone.
This achievement is all the more impressive when we consider the context. Jordan's strike rate is nothing short of extraordinary, with five tries in just two matches so far this year. And let's not forget the legendary Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, who set the bar high with her 50-try milestone in only 30 Test appearances.
The Wing Wizardry
One of the most intriguing aspects of Jordan's success is his positional versatility. The decision to move him from fullback to the wing has been a masterstroke by the All Blacks' coaching staff. Jordan's ability to adapt and thrive in both roles is a testament to his skill and understanding of the game. He admits to playing like a fullback even when on the wing, roaming and setting up defensively, which adds an extra layer of complexity to his game.
A Team Effort
While Jordan's individual brilliance is undeniable, it's important to recognize the collective effort of the All Blacks. The team's strategy of presenting higher edges and pressuring the opposition's skill sets has paid dividends. As Jordan himself noted, good pressure from teammates like Quinn Tupaea creates opportunities for the edges to succeed. This collaborative approach is a key reason why the All Blacks are currently sitting pretty in second place on the Southern Hemisphere standings in the Nations Championship.
The Road Ahead
With the All Blacks set to face their arch-rivals, the Springboks, in four Tests during the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour, the stage is set for more thrilling rugby action. Jordan and his teammates are under no illusions about the challenges ahead, but their unity and hard work bode well for the upcoming series. As Jordan puts it, "It's going to be great... Looking forward to rolling our sleeves up and getting stuck into some good footy."
Final Thoughts
Will Jordan's historic achievement is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the support of his teammates. As we look forward to the upcoming tour, one thing is certain: the All Blacks are a force to be reckoned with, and Jordan's try-scoring prowess will undoubtedly be a key factor in their success.
