Latest World Rankings: Stalemate lifts Ireland, while South Africa fall

October 02, 2017
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Ultimate Rugby

While there continues to be nothing between South Africa and Australia on the pitch, following a second consecutive draw in The Rugby Championship, the gap between the two in the World Rugby Rankings has closed to just 0.69 of a point.

Saturday’s 27-27 stalemate in Bloemfontein, three weeks after the sides had shared the spoils 23-23 in Perth, has resulted in the Springboks losing a fraction under half a rating point to drop to 85.35 points, putting them below Ireland, who take their place in third, by four-hundredths. Australia stay fifth but with an improved rating of 84.66 points.

The rankings were not affected by the All Blacks 10-36 victory of Argentina given that there are nearly 18 rating points and nine places between the sides.