Springboks Solidify Top Spot in World Rankings After Ireland Victory
The reigning world champion South Africa Springboks have further cemented their position at the summit of the World Rugby rankings following an impressive 27-20 victory over Ireland in Pretoria on Saturday.
Rassie Erasmus’ side were full value for their win, outscoring the visitors by three tries to two at Loftus Versfeld, setting them up nicely for the second Test against Ireland this weekend in Durban.
The Springboks’ triumph has extended their lead at the top of the rankings over their closest rivals, the Ireland national team. Andy Farrell’s men now trail the world champions by 4.50 points, with New Zealand and France not far behind in third and fourth respectively after securing wins over England and Argentina.
“Despite their defeat to the mighty All Blacks, England maintain fifth position, while Scotland occupy sixth spot following their 73-13 thrashing of Canada in Ottowa.”
Argentina sit seventh, with Australia, Italy, and Fiji rounding out the top 10.
Disappointingly for Wales, their 25-16 loss to Australia in Sydney has seen them drop to 11th position in the World Rugby rankings – their lowest-ever placement. The defeat means Warren Gatland’s side have now lost eight consecutive Test matches, a poor record that has seen them slip outside the top 10 for the first time.
The Wallabies’ victory has seen them climb to eighth in the rankings, while Samoa’s 33-25 triumph over Italy in Apia has propelled the Pacific Islanders to 13th position.
đź”— Source
