Boks on Top! Can All Blacks Steal the Crown? Rugby Rankings Shocker!
The latest World Rugby rankings are out, and the Springboks are clinging to the top spot! But the All Blacks are breathing down their necks, setting the stage for a thrilling battle for supremacy. Could we see a change at the summit this weekend? The answer depends on key matches unfolding in South Africa and elsewhere.
Springboks Under Pressure
South Africa's position is far from secure. Their upcoming match against Georgia in Nelspruit is crucial. While a victory won't earn them any ranking points due to the points difference between the teams, a shock defeat for the Boks could open the door for New Zealand to reclaim the coveted number one ranking for the first time since November 2021.
All Blacks' Opportunity
To seize the top spot, the All Blacks needed to secure a decisive victory against France in their final Test. A dominant performance, particularly a win by more than 15 points, would significantly close the gap on South Africa and set the stage for a potential takeover in the upcoming Rugby Championship.
France Could Shake Things Up
However, France also has a chance to climb the rankings. A convincing win against the All Blacks, with a margin exceeding 15 points, would propel them past both Ireland and New Zealand into second place. This would create a major shakeup in the top four, impacting the positions of Ireland and potentially England as well.
Top 20 Men's Rugby Rankings (July 14)
- South Africa – 92.78
- New Zealand – 91.72
- Australia – 82.08
- Argentina – 82.05
- Scotland – 81.37
- United States – 68.45
- Portugal – 66.44
Women's Rugby Rankings
In the women's rankings, England continues to dominate, holding a significant lead over Canada and New Zealand. South Africa's women's team currently sits at number 17.
Top 20 Women's Rugby Rankings (July 14)
- New Zealand – 88.74
- Australia – 77.68
- Scotland – 76.56
- United States – 72.05
- South Africa – 68.04
- Netherlands – 60.42
- Hong Kong China – 57.56
- Kazakhstan – 53.88
The upcoming matches promise thrilling rugby action and significant shifts in the World Rugby rankings. Stay tuned to see who emerges on top!