Arabic version: إسحاق هنري يصبح اللاعب رقم 999 في اختبارات الوالابيز

According to ABC News, Queensland Reds centre Isaac Henry made his Wallabies Test debut against Japan in Osaka, becoming Australia’s 999th men’s international rugby union player. The 27-year-old came off the bench late in Australia’s 35-32 victory on Saturday and played 10 minutes.

Henry had waited more than 70 minutes before entering the match, then defended furiously during the closing stages. He said he had briefly wondered whether he would get on the field, but described the debut as a hard-earned milestone after years affected by injury.

A broken foot, hamstring tear, two knee ligament and tendon ruptures and four major surgeries in four years were among his setbacks. His patella tendon rupture in 2024 was particularly serious, but Henry said he had resolved to return better than before. His six Reds appearances this season are more than he managed in any campaign since his 2021 Super Rugby debut.

Henry said he may discuss getting the number 999 tattooed with his wife. Coach Les Kiss credited the centre’s kicking, strong carry, handling and football brain. Henry said he was hungry for more opportunities, with Australia due to face Japan again in Townsville on Saturday.