World Rankings: Boks extend lead at the top

NEWS: South Africa’s advantage at the top of the World Rugby’s Rankings has been increased to two points after Saturday’s 29-20 win over England.

However, their nearest rivals are now Ireland, not New Zealand.

The Springboks increased their rating to 92.78 points, while Ireland beat Argentina 22-19, which puts them second on 90.78 points.

Meanwhile, the All Blacks were edged out, 29-30 by France, and their new rating of 90.09 points drops them down to third,

Fourth-placed France have moved to within two points of breaking into the top three following their win in Paris, while the rest of the positions in the top 10 remain the same with Georgia unable to force their way in despite getting off to a promising start in their match against Italy.

The Lelos led 17-6 at half-time in Genoa but Italy reeled off 14 points in the second half to stave off defeat and win 20-17. Georgia would have moved into the top 10 for the first time in history had they avoided defeat because Wales were subsequently beaten 52-20 by Australia in the later of the two Sunday kick-offs.

While Wales’ record 11th straight loss did not lead to them dropping to an all-time rankings low of 12th, the gap between themselves and the Lelos is down to just 0.16 of a point.

The USA produced one of three best results outside of the top 10 and gained one place as a result of their 36-17 win against Tonga. The Eagles have replaced Portugal, who were well beaten by Scotland, in 15th, which is their highest position since Rugby World Cup 2019. Japan also claimed one place, to move to 13th, after beating Uruguay 36-20.

The biggest climbers were the Netherlands, whose steady progress under Lyn Jones continued with a 20-17 win against last year’s Rugby World Cup debutants Chile. The Dutch, who will be hoping to make their tournament debut in Australia in 2027, have surged up the rankings to 24th, a gain of three places.

By Jon Newcombe, Rugbypass