The Springboks have entrenched their position as the world’s number-one team, after starting the year ranked behind Ireland, France, and New Zealand.

Having successfully defended their crown in the Rugby World Cup final against the All Blacks, South Africa have increased their advantage at the top of World Rugby’s Test rankings.

The Boks started 2023 ranked at number four in the world, but ended Ireland’s 15-month reign as the world’s best team in the world cup quarter-finals when Andy Farrell’s side were beaten by the All Blacks.

New Zealand, who came into the world cup final in second place in the rankings, have dropped down to third, after losing 1.76 points and switching with Ireland.

Having gained an almost identical amount of points for their 26-23 bronze final victory over Argentina, England closed the gap on the top four but will still be fifth, 2.27 points behind France.

Argentina will remain in seventh place, fractionally ahead of Wales, with a reduced rating of 80.68 points.