World rankings: Springboks on the rise after big victory while France drop
South Africa lifting the Prince William Cup after beating Wales in their Rugby World Cup warm-up.
South Africa have moved above France in the latest World Rugby rankings following their impressive performance at the weekend.
The Springboks take over from Les Bleus in third position, despite Fabien Galthie’s men also claiming a victory on Saturday.
Jacques Nienaber’s charges dominated the Welsh at the Principality Stadium, earning a 52-16 triumph which gives them 89.37 points in the standings.
The French are only 0.15 behind the Boks but their 34-17 win over Fiji was not enough to keep them in the top three.
Tight in the top four
Just over two points separates Ireland at the summit, who comfortably defeated England in Dublin, and France in fourth.
There is a large gap of 5.21 points to the next best team in Scotland, with the Red Rose a further 2.48 adrift in sixth.
Argentina, Australia, Fiji and Wales make up the rest of the top 10.
Outside of the top 10, Georgia and Italy remain in 11th and 13th respectively, despite securing comfortable victories over the USA and Romania.
The Lelos defeated the Eagles 22-7 while the Azzurri dominated The Oaks 57-7.
World rankings week beginning 21/08/2023
1 (1) Ireland 91.82
2 (2) New Zealand 90.77
3 (4) South Africa 89.37
4 (3) France 89.22
5 (5) Scotland 84.01
6 (6) England 81.53
7 (7) Argentina 80.86
8 (8) Australia 79.87
9 (9) Fiji 78.70
10 (10) Wales 78.26