Will Jordan scored a hat-trick and became the All Blacks’ leading Test try-scorer as New Zealand beat Italy 47-17 at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Saturday.
Jordan’s three tries lifted his career tally to 50 from 56 Tests, passing former winger Doug Howlett’s record of 49.
The All Blacks scored seven tries to claim their second win of the inaugural Nations Championship, following their 34-32 victory over France in Christchurch.
Italy made a strong start, with midfielder Tommaso Menoncello crossing in the third minute after breaking through Billy Proctor’s tackle.
Lock Sam Darry responded for New Zealand before Tommaso Allan kicked a penalty to put Italy back in front.
Jordan scored his first try on the half-hour mark, giving the All Blacks a narrow 14-10 lead at halftime after a scrappy opening 40 minutes.
New Zealand took control early in the second half, scoring four tries in 14 minutes.
Cam Roigard and Ethan de Groot crossed before Jordan added two tries in quick succession, first equalling and then passing Howlett’s record.
Italy lock Niccolò Cannone was shown a yellow card for making contact with Roigard’s head at a breakdown. The card was later upgraded to red following a review.
Italy replacement Leonardo Marin scored midway through the second half, while All Blacks lock Tupou Vaa’i completed the scoring with a try after the final hooter.
Italy also lost fullback Tommaso Allan, who was stretchered from the field with an apparent chest injury.
The All Blacks will host Ireland in Auckland next week, while Italy will face Australia in Perth.
