The Springboks were able to leapfrog into second spot on the world rankings after their recent win over the Wallabies, while New Zealand’s lead at the top has shrunk to just 0.71 after they suffered a surprise loss to Argentina.
It leaves everything to play for in the Rugby Championship, especially as the Springboks are next in action against their arch-rivals on 6 September. That clash against the All Blacks takes place in Auckland, with kick off at 09:05 (SA time).
If the Springboks can pick up a win over New Zealand at Eden Park, not only would they jump back to No 1, but they’d also condemn the All Blacks to third place in the rankings.
However, even that result doesn’t materialise and New Zealand once again claim victory at their Eden Park fortress, South Africa could still return to top spot if they beat their rivals in Wellington a week later.
In short, even one victory for the Springboks on their tour to New Zealand is likely to see them return to Mzansi as the No 1 ranked team in the world, while also keeping their Rugby Championship title defence well and truly alive.
UPDATED RUGBY WORLD RANKINGS AFTER SPRINGBOKS’ LATEST WIN
| 1 | New Zealand | 90.72 | (-1.79) | |
| 2 | (↑1) | South Africa | 90.01 | (+0.23) |
| 3 | (↓1) | Ireland | 89.83 | |
| 4 | France | 87.82 | ||
| 5 | England | 87.64 | ||
| 6 | Australia | 84.85 | (-0.23) | |
| 7 | Argentina | 83.40 | (+1.79) | |
| 8 | Scotland | 81.57 | ||
| 9 | Fiji | 80.50 | ||
| 10 | Italy | 77.77 |
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THESE LATEST STANDINGS?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
