Wales rise to fifth in the world rankings

Welsh Rugby Union | Wales & Regions Published 12:17 pm 21st Mar 2005 News

Wins over France, England and most recently Ireland, who were all ranked above them before the start of the campaign, have seen Mike Ruddock’s side reach their highest position since his tenure began.

England’s miserable RBS Six Nations showing has seen them slip to sixth spot. It seems the World Champions aren’t quite top of the world right now. That honour is reserved for New Zealand, who top the rankings. Australia, South Africa and France are the other teams above Wales.

Ireland and Wales swap places after the 32-20 Millennium Stadium scoreline.

IRB world rankings (21st March):
01 (01) New Zealand
02 (02) Australia
03 (03) South Africa
04 (04) France
05 (07) Wales
06 (06) England
07 (05) Ireland
08 (08) Argentina
09 (09) Fiji
10 (10) Scotland