The latest World Rugby rankings have now been officially confirmed – and Australia are breathing down England’s neck.
The Wallabies have climbed above Scotland into sixth following their dramatic 42-38 victory against South Africa in Perth.
Australia picked up two ranking points for beating the world champions, moving from 83.55 to 85.55.
That leaves them just 0.13 points behind England, who remain fifth on 85.68.
RUCK reported the projected rankings immediately after the Springboks defeat, and those changes have now been officially confirmed.
Scotland are the side to lose out. They have dropped from sixth to seventh despite not playing over the weekend.
South Africa remain the number one side in the world, although their advantage has taken a significant hit.
The Springboks have fallen from 95.09 to 93.09 following their defeat, leaving New Zealand just 1.94 points behind them.
Ireland remain third ahead of France, while England complete the top five.
It comes as Steve Borthwick continues preparations for 2027, with England's route to the Rugby World Cup already confirmed.
Australia could have climbed even higher
The Wallabies led South Africa 42-17 with less than 20 minutes remaining and were on course to make an even bigger rankings statement.
However, a remarkable late Springboks fightback reduced the winning margin to four points.
Australia were also reduced to 11 men during a chaotic finish before eventually holding on for a famous victory.
The result continues an impressive rise for the Wallabies, who are now within touching distance of England ahead of another huge period of international rugby.
Latest World Rugby rankings
- South Africa – 93.09
- New Zealand – 91.15
- Ireland – 88.08
- France – 87.43
- England – 85.68
- Australia – 85.55
- Scotland – 84.78
- Argentina – 82.24
- Japan – 77.28
- Fiji – 76.81
Australia's rise leaves just 0.90 ranking points separating England, Australia and Scotland from fifth to seventh.
The latest standings also leave South Africa with significantly less breathing room at the top.
Fans can see the full men's standings on World Rugby, with further movement possible during the next round of international fixtures.
