By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
France have officially became the best team in the world following World Rugby update on their rankings.
France, who beat Japan 20-15 in Tokyo, have climbed to the top of the rankings for the first time since the system was introduced in 2003.
The Springboks dropped from No 1 to No 3 after a 13-12 loss to Wales in Bloemfontein, while the All Blacks also dropped two spots to No 4 following a 23-12 loss to Ireland in Dunedin. It’s New Zealand’s worst-ever ranking position.
The Irish climbed two spots to No 2 after their first-ever win over the All Blacks in New Zealand.
In fact, Ireland would have claimed the number one spot were it not for conceding a late try to the All Blacks, which meant their margin of victory was less than 15 points.
Elsewhere, England moved ahead of Australia into fifth after beating the Wallabies 23-15 in the second Test in Brisbane.
Scotland are also up to No 7 after a convincing 29-6 win over Argentina in Salta, while Wales moved up a spot to No 8 after their historic win over the Boks.
Georgia, who played Italy in Batumi, climb one place with victory over the Azzurri, regaining the place lost to the Italians last weekend.
Samoa remain the higher-ranked than Tonga, a fact that wouldn’t have changed even if they had lost to their island neighbours. They won the game 34 – 18.
Top 10 World Rugby rankings (as of 11 July 2022):
1. France 89.41 (+2)
2. Ireland 88.79 (+2)
3. South Africa 88.61 (-2)
4. New Zealand 88.17 (-2)
5. England 85.14 (+1)
6. Australia 83.28 (-1)
7. Scotland 82.99 (+1)
8. Wales 81.28 (+1)
9. Argentina 79.39 (-2)
10. Japan 77.74.