n the thrilling world of rugby league, there are few accomplishments more revered than crossing the try line. It’s a testament to a player’s speed, agility, and instinctive understanding of the game. Over the years, certain players have elevated themselves to legendary status by consistently finding themselves on the scoresheet. In this article, we celebrate the NRL players with the most tries of all time, delving into their careers and the moments that defined their try-scoring prowess.
- Ken Irvine – 212 Tries: Ken Irvine’s name stands tall in the annals of rugby league history as the NRL’s all-time leading try-scorer. A dynamic winger with electrifying speed and an innate ability to find the try line, Irvine left an indelible mark on the game during his illustrious career.
Irvine’s try-scoring exploits were nothing short of legendary, as he consistently terrorized opposition defenses with his blistering pace and impeccable finishing ability. Whether it was latching onto pinpoint kicks or carving through defensive lines with his elusive running, Irvine had a knack for producing moments of magic whenever he stepped onto the field.
Throughout his career, which spanned from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, Irvine amassed an astonishing 212 tries, a record that remains untouched to this day. His legacy as one of rugby league’s greatest try-scorers endures as a testament to his skill, athleticism, and sheer determination to succeed.
- Billy Slater – 190 Tries: Renowned for his blistering pace, impeccable footwork, and innate rugby league intelligence, Billy Slater stands as one of the NRL’s most electrifying try-scorers of all time. Throughout his illustrious career with the Melbourne Storm, Slater consistently dazzled fans with his breathtaking displays of speed and skill.
Slater’s ability to anticipate play, support his teammates, and exploit defensive gaps made him a nightmare for opposition defenses. Whether it was finishing off sweeping backline movements or chiming into the attacking line with his trademark acceleration, Slater had an uncanny knack for finding himself in the right place at the right time.
By the time he retired in 2018, Slater had amassed an impressive tally of 190 tries, firmly establishing himself as one of the NRL’s most prolific try-scorers. His legacy as a true rugby league maestro lives on through his enduring impact on the game and the countless moments of magic he provided for fans around the world.
- Steve Menzies – 180 Tries: Steve Menzies, affectionately known as “Beaver,” is revered as one of the NRL’s greatest forwards of all time, but it’s his try-scoring exploits that truly set him apart. A versatile player with a remarkable ability to sniff out a try, Menzies left an indelible mark on the game during his storied career.
Despite predominantly playing in the forward pack, Menzies possessed the speed, agility, and footballing nous to regularly find himself on the scoresheet. Whether it was supporting his teammates with timely runs or showcasing his aerial prowess to pluck high balls from the sky, Menzies’ ability to find the try line was unparalleled.
Over the course of his illustrious career, which spanned over two decades, Menzies amassed an impressive tally of 180 tries, firmly establishing himself as one of the NRL’s most prolific try-scoring forwards. His legacy as a true rugby league icon endures as a testament to his skill, longevity, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
- Brett Stewart – 163 Tries: Brett Stewart, affectionately known as “Snake,” etched his name into rugby league folklore as one of the most dynamic fullbacks of his generation. Renowned for his blistering speed, elusive running style, and impeccable support play, Stewart was a constant threat to opposition defenses throughout his illustrious career with the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles.
Stewart’s ability to inject himself into attacking movements and finish off scoring opportunities with aplomb made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenders. Whether it was slicing through defensive lines with his acceleration or chiming into the backline with his impeccable timing, Stewart had a knack for producing moments of magic whenever he took to the field.
By the time he hung up his boots in 2016, Stewart had amassed an impressive tally of 163 tries, firmly establishing himself as one of the NRL’s most prolific try-scorers. His legacy as a true rugby league icon lives on through his enduring impact on the game and the countless memories he provided for fans around the world.
- Andrew Ettingshausen – 165 Tries: Andrew Ettingshausen, affectionately known as “ET,” stands as one of the NRL’s most iconic figures, revered for his longevity, consistency, and try-scoring prowess. A dynamic outside back with blistering speed and impeccable finishing ability, Ettingshausen enjoyed a storied career with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, etching his name into rugby league history with his remarkable achievements.
Ettingshausen’s ability to sniff out a try and exploit defensive weaknesses made him a constant threat to opposition defenses throughout his career. Whether it was finishing off sweeping backline movements or showcasing his aerial prowess to deftly collect high balls, Ettingshausen had a knack for producing moments of magic whenever he took to the field.
By the time he retired in 2000, Ettingshausen had amassed an impressive tally of 165 tries, firmly establishing himself as one of the NRL’s most prolific try-scorers. His legacy as a true rugby league legend endures as a testament to his skill, athleticism, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
In conclusion, the NRL players with the most tries of all time have left an indelible mark on the game, showcasing their speed, skill, and innate understanding of the sport. From the electrifying runs of Ken Irvine to the impeccable support play of Billy Slater, these players have provided fans with countless moments of joy and excitement. As the NRL continues to evolve, their legacy will endure as a testament to their enduring greatness and the impact they had on the game.
