Portia Woodman-Wickliffe: The female ‘Jonah Lomu’ breaks rugby try record

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe Makes Rugby History

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, the outstanding New Zealand player, wrote her name in the history books on Sunday by becoming the top try scorer for her country, surpassing any previous record, whether male or female. This achievement was realized during the Black Ferns’ resounding victory over Japan, with a score of 62-19, securing their place in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals. After scoring in last week’s victory against Spain, Woodman-Wickliffe needed one more try to surpass the record of 49 held by Doug Howlett, former All Blacks player. The 34-year-old athlete achieved her 50th try at 12 minutes into the match in Exeter, in her thirtieth match with the New Zealand national team. This milestone also extended her own record of tries in the World Cup, reaching 22. With consecutive World Cup victories and two Olympic gold medals, Woodman-Wickliffe has established herself as a legend in both XVs and sevens rugby.

I think a lot of people have compared P [Portia] to the female Jonah Lomu… that’s exactly what she’s done.

Ruahei Demant, co-captain of the Black Ferns

Black Ferns co-captain Ruahei Demant highlighted Woodman-Wickliffe’s incalculable influence on the game.

Woodman-Wickliffe scored her 50th try for the Black Ferns on Sunday. Demant added: “She is, by herself, the most influential female rugby player in the world. I am very proud and fortunate to be able to play alongside her as a teammate and not as a rival. Regardless of the achievements and recognitions she gets, for those of us who know her as a person, she is one of the most humble and simple people you will meet. I know she will say that the tries she scores are simply her job… but it’s very nice to have someone like her by your side to finish all the opportunities that the girls work so hard to create.”