Springboks extend World No 1 Ranking lead

South Africa have strengthened their position at the top of the World Rugby Rankings following their emphatic 43-28 victory over New Zealand in Baltimore, which also secured the Greatest Rivalry series 3-1.

Springboks reach record World Rugby rating

The Springboks are set to move to 95.09 rating points following their victory at M&T Bank Stadium, their highest total since the World Rugby rankings were introduced.

New Zealand remain second but drop to 91.15, leaving South Africa with a 3.94-point advantage at the top.

The Springboks had entered the Baltimore finale on 94.33 points, with the All Blacks on 91.90 and still capable of taking over as world No.1 with victory.

Instead, Rassie Erasmus’ side produced a six-try performance to win their third consecutive Test against New Zealand and further strengthen their hold on top spot.

South Africa surpass previous rankings high

South Africa’s previous highest rating was 94.86 points, achieved in July 2024 following victory over Ireland at Loftus Versfeld.

Their new mark therefore represents the first time the Springboks have moved beyond 95 rating points.

It provides another measure of their progress under Erasmus, who first took charge in 2018 when South Africa were outside the leading positions in the rankings.

All Blacks remain second after Baltimore defeat

New Zealand retain second place despite the defeat, ahead of Ireland and France.

England remain fifth, followed by Scotland, Australia and Argentina, while Fiji complete the top nine. Wales sit 10th, narrowly ahead of Italy, with Japan in 12th.

For South Africa, the rankings boost completes a successful Greatest Rivalry campaign after recovering from defeat in the opening Test to win the final three matches.