France climbed above England in the latest World Rugby rankings after another strong Six Nations performance, while Scotland also improved their position following a key victory.
Scotland ended England’s long winning run with a 31-20 victory at Murrayfield, producing a clinical attacking display backed by determined defence to keep the Calcutta Cup in Edinburgh.
Ireland avoided a shock defeat in the second round of Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium, coming from behind to defeat a spirited Italy after a tense second half comeback.
After a disappointing start to the Six Nations, Scotland can still take heart from emerging talent beyond the senior squad, none more so than young prop Ollie Blyth-Lafferty.
England wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has been ruled out of Saturday's match against Scotland and is facing a race against time to feature in the Six Nations after suffering a hamstring injury.