Alex Johnston Nears Historic NRL Try-Scoring Record with Testimonial Match Planned
Alex Johnston is on the verge of joining one of rugby league’s rarest clubs — and plans are already in motion to make sure the moment is celebrated in style. The South Sydney Rabbitohs star is just five tries away from eclipsing Ken Irvine’s legendary tally of 212 tries, a record that has stood untouched since 1973. When that milestone is finally reached, Johnston won’t just be remembered for his try-scoring brilliance; he’s set to be honoured with a testimonial match, an accolade granted to only a select few in the sport’s history.
The idea has been discussed at high levels within both the Rabbitohs and the NRL, with officials considering how best to acknowledge such a monumental achievement. While some fans have dreamt of rushing the field when the record is broken, safety rules make that unlikely. Instead, the focus is on creating a celebration that matches Johnston’s impact on the game. The testimonial match — a tradition steeped in rugby league history — would see Johnston follow in the footsteps of players like John Sutton, Cameron Smith, Johnathan Thurston, and Alex Glenn.
Also Read:- Caminero Crushes Milestone with Two Homer Night vs Angels
- Millions of UK Savers Hit by Hidden Tax Squeeze
The NRL’s criteria for granting such a tribute are strict. The player must have served over a decade in the game, spent their entire career at one club, and avoided any scandals that could tarnish the sport’s image. Johnston ticks every box. He’s been loyal to South Sydney since debuting in 2014, rejecting offers from other clubs to stay true to the team he loves. His career has been built on consistency, professionalism, and a knack for finding the try line — sometimes five times in a single match.
Current and former teammates have been vocal in their admiration. Forward Sean Keppie described Johnston as a hard worker and a great man, adding that no one deserves the recognition more. Jacob Host joked that Johnston had already scored three tries at training, hinting the record could fall sooner than expected. Both emphasised his unselfish nature — the fact that while the record is historic, Johnston himself remains focused on doing what’s best for the team.
Although the record might be broken this season or the next, the testimonial match is expected to take place early in 2027. Such matches often include a charitable component, though the honoured player keeps a portion of the proceeds. In the UK’s Super League, testimonial games have also been used to raise funds for causes like Rob Burrow’s battle with motor neurone disease.
For now, Johnston remains contracted to the Rabbitohs for two more seasons, though a clause allows him to negotiate with the NRL’s new PNG franchise. Whether he stays in red and green until retirement or not, his place in rugby league history is all but assured — and soon, his name may sit alone at the very top of the try-scoring list.
Read More:
0 Comments