After the historic announcement last night of Fiji joining the Nations Championship next year, World Rugby has just confirmed that the FIJI Water Flying Fijians have moved up one place and are now ranked 8th.
Even though the Flying Fijians went down 34-21 to France on Sunday, Argentina's 33-24 win over Scotland and England defeating the All Blacks also played a part in that positional change.
The Springboks cannot be shifted from the number one spot even if they lose against Ireland at Aviva Stadium this weekend.
Scott Robertson’s men also have a game but they will be unable to close the gap given that they are against a struggling Wales side.
It is a similar story for the Red Rose, who managed to move up one place, above Ireland, with their triumph on Saturday, but cannot go any higher next week if the All Blacks, as very much expected, prove far too strong for the Welsh.
Andy Farrell’s men dropped below England due to their inability to gain any points in their game against the Wallabies, but the 46-19 win was a statement performance and they have the opportunity to return to the top three this weekend.
1. South Africa
2. New Zealand
3. England
4. Ireland
5. France
6. Argentina
7. Australia
8. Fiji
9. Scotland
10. Italy
Meanwhile, the Flying Fijians play Spain at 4am Sunday in Malaga.
Source: planetrugby.com
