The latest Women’s World Rugby rankings have been released, with England on top as the best side in the world. The Red Roses sit at top spot with a score of 94.55 (out of 100), with the Black Ferns of New Zealand close behind with 93.86.
England retained their position at the top of the charts with a 50-24 victory over Canada last weekend, in the first of a two-match series ahead of the inaugural WXV global tournament. This Red Roses victory took place in Exeter’s Sandy Park, with the two sides set to meet again tomorrow afternoon at Saracens’ StoneX Stadium.
England’s 2023 Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam elevated them to take top spot in the Women’s World Rugby rankings. The Red Roses head to New Zealand next month for the first ever WXV1 competition, as they take on Australia, complete the trilogy against Canada, and close out with a Rugby World Cup Final re-match against the reigning World Champions New Zealand.
The Black Ferns have been unable to move past England for top spot in the rankings, despite winning the 2023 Pacific Four Series earlier in the Summer. New Zealand completed a clean sweep of victories over the Wallaroos, the United States and Canada, to win retain the title in back-to-back years. The Black Ferns will be eyeing up the WXV1 competition as an opportunity to topple England’s spot at the top of the rankings.
New Zealand take on 2023 Women’s Six Nations runners-up France and bronze medalists Wales, before the show-down with John Mitchell’s new side in round three. The full World Rugby Women’s rankings can be read here with the top 10 listed below.
World Rugby Women’s Rankings (As of September 29th 2023)
1. England (94.55)
2. New Zealand (93.86)
3. France (89.62)
4. Canada (84.35)
5. Australia (78.97)
6. Wales (77.00)
7. USA (75.48)
8. Italy (74.63)
9. Scotland (71.19)
10. Ireland (71.09)