England overtake France in rankings

Six Nations leaders England have moved up one place to eighth in the World Rugby rankings following their 9-15 victory over Scotland.

The World Rugby Rankings update is the first with any real movement since last year’s Rugby World Cup when the ranking point value doubles.

Les Bleus fall one place to eighth in the World Rugby rankings as a result of England’s 15-9 away win against Scotland at Murrayfield, which sees them replace the French at seventh in the world.

Following their home loss, Scotland fall two places to eleventh, behind Japan (9) and Fiji (10).

In the weekend’s Sunday fixture, Ireland began their title defence with a 16-16 draw against Wales. Neither sides move in the world rankings – Wales stay fourth and Ireland sixth.

World Rankings

1. New Zealand 96.1
2. Australia 89.33
3. South Africa 87.66
4. Wales 83.49
5. Argentina 82.59
6. Ireland 81.17
7. England 80.89
8. France 79.77
9. Japan 77.05
10. Fiji 76.96
19. Scotland 76.82
12. Italy 72.74
13. Tonga 71.60
14. Georgia 71.45
15. Samoa 70.36
16. USA 68.66
17. Romania 66.59
18. Russia 64.08
19. Canada 63.62
20. Namibia 61.75