The short version
- Christian Wade scored his 101st Premiership try to equal Chris Ashton's all-time record during Newcastle Red Bulls' win against Sale Sharks.
- The milestone comes after a varied career that included time in the NFL and rugby league, highlighting Wade's adaptability across different sporting codes.
- Newcastle secured their first league victory of the season with a 17-3 scoreline, setting up a potential record-breaking opportunity in their next match against Saracens.
Christian Wade has matched Chris Ashton’s all-time try-scoring record in the English Premiership, reaching 101 career tries after scoring for Newcastle Red Bulls against Sale Sharks. The milestone was achieved on a windy evening at Kingston Park, where Wade crossed the line in the right corner nine minutes into the second half. This score leveled him with Ashton, whose mark had stood unchallenged for more than three years. Wade now has the chance to surpass the record when Newcastle travels to face Saracens next Saturday.
The victory marked a significant turnaround for Newcastle, who secured their first league win of the season with a 17-3 result. The match was characterized by difficult conditions and stubborn defenses, with few clear chances emerging in the first half. Sale’s George Ford kicked a penalty to give the visitors a 3-0 lead at the break. However, Newcastle capitalized on defensive errors from Sale in the second period. Wade’s try, converted by Josh Hodge, gave the hosts a 7-3 advantage. George McGuigan later added a second try from a maul, extending the lead to 17-3 and securing the win.
Wade’s path to this record has been unconventional for a professional rugby union player. His career spans over 15 years and includes significant periods away from the sport. In 2018, he joined the Buffalo Bills in the NFL through the International Player Pathway program. Although he participated in pre-season games and spent time on the practice squad, he did not appear in a regular-season NFL game before being released after three seasons. He subsequently returned to rugby union in France with Racing 92, scoring 10 tries over two seasons.
After his stint in France, Wade played for Gloucester in the Premiership, adding 11 tries to his tally. This period moved him above former England winger Mark Cueto on the all-time list and into joint second place behind Ashton. Seeking further challenge, Wade then spent six months playing rugby league with Wigan Warriors. His return to Newcastle Red Bulls has seen a resurgence in form. Despite the team finishing bottom of the table last season, Wade signed a contract extension under head coach Dan McFarland.
This current season has been productive for Wade, despite Newcastle’s struggles. He scored five tries in the team’s first three matches, including a hat-trick against Exeter Chiefs and two scores against Northampton Saints. His performance against Sale added a sixth try of the campaign. At 35 years old, Wade remains a significant threat to defenses due to his speed and ability to attack from both feet. His longevity is attributed to a disciplined approach to physical maintenance, including working with physios and trainers off the field.
Wade has downplayed the significance of overtaking Ashton’s record, stating that scoring tries is simply his role within the team structure. He emphasized that his success is a result of team cohesion and effective execution of game plans. Coach Dan McFarland praised Wade’s energy and ability to find space near the tryline. McFarland noted that while the win was pleasing, the team must remain focused on long-term improvement rather than celebrating a single victory.
The match against Sale highlighted Newcastle’s resilience in tough conditions. The first half was scrappy, with both teams struggling to create clear opportunities. Newcastle’s decision to kick for touch rather than at goal from penalty positions eventually paid off, leading to sustained pressure that resulted in Wade’s try. The second try by McGuigan demonstrated the team’s ability to capitalize on set-piece advantages. The victory leaves Harlequins as the only other team without a win in the current Premiership season.
Looking ahead, Newcastle faces Saracens in their next fixture, providing Wade with an immediate opportunity to break the all-time record. The team will aim to build on this momentum, having secured a crucial win against a side that was previously unbeaten in two league outings. Wade’s journey from his debut for Wasps in 2011 to this milestone reflects a career defined by adaptability and sustained performance across multiple elite sporting environments.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Sport↗'That's what I do' - Wade scores again to equal Prem try-scoring record
- BBC News↗Wade equals Prem try-scoring record as Newcastle beat Sale
