Jordan sets New Zealand try record in win over Italy

WELLINGTON: Will Jordan scored three tries and said it was hugely humbling after becoming New Zealand's all-time leading try-scorer in Test rugby as the All Blacks beat Italy 47-17 in a Nations Championship match on Saturday.

New Zealand recovered from a patchy opening to finish with seven tries and secure a second bonus-point victory in as many matches in the new 12-team competition under coach Dave Rennie. The result followed last week's 34-32 win over France.

The All Blacks were only 14-10 ahead at halftime after what was described as an unconvincing first half, but the match turned decisively in the third quarter. New Zealand crossed four times during that period as Italy were reduced to 14 men.

Two of those tries went to Jordan, who had also scored before the break. His tally moved him beyond former wing Doug Howlett's mark of 49 tries, with Jordan reaching 50 in his 56th Test.

Speaking after the match, Jordan reflected on the milestone.

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.

Italy start strongly before momentum shifts

Italy made the brighter start and went ahead in the third minute when midfielder Tommaso Menoncello finished a move that he had started himself by breaking through Billy Proctor's attempted tackle and exchanging passes with Malik Faissal.

New Zealand drew level at 7-7 when lock Sam Darry powered over, but Italy regained the lead through a penalty from Tommaso Allan. Jordan then scored on the half-hour to give the hosts a narrow advantage at the interval after a scrappy first half in which they found Italy's defence difficult to break down.

Italy's position worsened 10 minutes into the second half when lock Niccolo Cannone was shown a yellow card for a head-butt on New Zealand scrum-half Cam Roigard. Match officials later upgraded it to a red card after ruling that the incident involved a high degree of danger and no mitigation.

The visitors were also hit by a run of injuries during the game. Fullback Allan appeared to suffer a chest injury and was taken off on a stretcher after a lengthy stoppage.

Italy captain Michele Lamaro said his side had opened the game well.

We started really well, we were putting them under pressure,