Springboks’ Roadmap to Maintain No.1 World Rugby Ranking
With the Rugby World Cup 2027 draw set for December 3, teams have limited time to improve their positions in the World Rugby Rankings. These rankings will determine group placements for the tournament.
World Rugby Rankings Overview
Currently, the top-tier teams in Band 1 include:
- South Africa
- New Zealand
- Ireland
- England
- France
- Argentina
Band 2 features:
- Australia
- Scotland
- Fiji
- Italy
- Georgia
- Wales
Band 3 comprises:
- Japan
- USA
- Samoa
- Chile
- Tonga
Should Samoa qualify, Band 4 could include:
- Uruguay
- Portugal
- Romania
- Hong Kong China
- Canada
- Zimbabwe
Springboks’ Position and Upcoming Matches
South Africa currently holds the number one spot in the world, with a lead of 1.20 points over New Zealand. However, their position could change this weekend if results do not favor them against France in Paris. A loss for South Africa combined with a win for New Zealand against Scotland would see the All Blacks ascend to the top.
To remain the top-ranked team, the Springboks must secure at least a draw against France at Stade de France.
Ireland’s Ranking Challenges
Ireland, ranked third, cannot gain points this weekend. They are set to face Japan and are safe in third place if they win, irrespective of England’s match against Fiji. However, a loss or draw may drop them to fifth place.
England and France’s Potential Moves
England occupies fourth, with limited opportunities to improve their position. With only 0.02 points available for beating Fiji, they depend on both France and Ireland losing to maintain their rank. Conversely, a victory for France against South Africa could elevate them to third place, depending on their winning margin.
Argentina’s Position at Risk
Argentina’s top-six placement is contingent upon their performance against Wales. A loss could allow Australia to replace them in Band 1, assuming the Wallabies win against Italy.
Teams Monitoring Rankings
Teams outside of the top-tier bands face significant challenges in climbing the rankings. Notably:
- Fiji needs a win against England and hopes for a draw between Wales and Argentina to improve their standings.
- Scotland could make history by defeating New Zealand, though they require other results to fall in their favor.
- Italy is unlikely to improve their placement, even with a strong performance against Australia.
In Dubai, the Final Qualification Tournament is also impacting the rankings. Matches involving Samoa, Brazil, Belgium, and Namibia will be crucial for those teams’ World Cup aspirations.
As the Rugby World Cup approaches, the stakes in the rankings have never been higher. With top teams clashing, the next few weekends will be pivotal for shaping the tournament landscape.
