Here’s a bold statement: Christian Wade is on a mission to rewrite rugby history, and he’s not stopping until he claims the title of the Premiership’s all-time leading try-scorer. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a 34-year-old winger, fresh off a detour through rugby league and American football, really dethrone Chris Ashton’s record of 101 tries? Wade thinks so, and he’s not shy about saying it.
Wade’s return to rugby union with the Newcastle Red Bulls has sent shockwaves through the sport. Since the energy drinks giant’s takeover, Newcastle has been searching for a spark, and Wade’s arrival is nothing short of electrifying. After a brief but impactful stint with the Wigan Warriors, he’s now set to make his Newcastle debut in the European Challenge Cup against the South African Lions on Saturday (17:30 GMT). This match serves as a warm-up for the three crucial Premiership games over the festive period, where Wade aims to prove he’s still one of the deadliest finishers in the game.
With 93 Premiership tries to his name—just eight shy of Ashton’s record—Wade isn’t hiding his ambition. ‘I saw this as the next step for me,’ he told BBC Look North. ‘It’s a great opportunity to bring my experience, make an impact, and go for that record.’ And this is the part most people miss—Wade’s eclectic career, which includes a three-year stint in American football with the Buffalo Bills and a recent foray into rugby league, has honed his skills in ways few players can match. His work on footwork, spatial awareness, and one-on-one contact has made him a more complete player, as evidenced by his 11 tries in 14 Premiership games for Gloucester last season and two tries in just two Super League appearances for Wigan.
But Wade’s pursuit of the try-scoring record isn’t without challenges. Newcastle, winless in the Premiership this season and struggling since November 2024, are in dire need of a turnaround. Despite the Red Bull backing, they’re still rooted to the bottom of the table after six matches. Wade acknowledges the short-term pain but sees a brighter future, drawing parallels to his early days at Wasps. ‘We almost got relegated, but it took us three, four years to reach the top,’ he said. ‘That’s the trajectory I see for Newcastle.’
Here’s the controversial question: Is Wade’s confidence bordering on overconfidence? He admits the challenge is steep, joining mid-season with limited games remaining. Yet, he’s unfazed. ‘I’m backing myself to go for that record,’ he said. ‘If I don’t make it, I don’t make it, but my vision is to go for it.’
However, Wade is quick to emphasize that the try record isn’t his sole focus. He’s committed to helping Newcastle climb out of the relegation zone and believes in the club’s long-term potential. ‘I feel great, my body’s in great condition,’ he added. ‘I’ve invested a lot in myself over the years, and I’m here to make an impact.’
As Wade embarks on this ambitious quest, one thing is clear: whether he breaks the record or not, his journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. But what do you think? Can Wade surpass Ashton’s record, or is he setting himself up for a fall? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
