The Springboks are back at No. 1 in the World Rugby rankings. And they can thank a 73-year-old Welsh drought for the dramatic reprieve.
South Africa lost 21-19 to France in Paris on Friday night. That defeat dropped them to No. 2 and handed the All Blacks top spot. The reign lasted roughly 16 hours.
On Saturday, Wales stunned New Zealand 35-28 in Cardiff. It was Wales’ first win over the All Blacks since 1953.
The upset cost New Zealand 2.00 ranking points. It sent them tumbling back below South Africa.
The Boks now sit on 91.53 points, with New Zealand on 90.65 and France climbing to third on 89.05.
World Rugby rankings: The men’s top five
- 1. South Africa (91.53)
- 2. New Zealand (90.65)
- 3. France (89.05)
- 4. Ireland (88.70)
- 5. England (86.99)
World Rugby rankings: The women’s top five
- 1. England (94.20)
- 2. New Zealand (93.18)
- 3. Canada (91.68)
- 4. France (85.00)
- 5. Ireland (78.29)
You can track the live standings on the official World Rugby rankings page.
What No. 1 means for the Springboks
Being No. 1 restores a psychological edge before the Boks face Ireland in Dublin on Saturday. It also validates the dynasty built by Rassie Erasmus.
He has led the team to back-to-back World Cup titles and a 2026 series win over New Zealand.
There is zero margin for error. The top-ranked side gains fewer points for wins and loses more for defeats. South Africa cannot afford a slip-up in Dublin.
What No. 1 means for South Africa
The Springboks remain a unifying force in a country facing tough economic and social times. A rankings reprieve, however dramatic, sparks nationwide pride.
Being No. 1 also boosts the Springbok brand for sponsors, broadcasters, and tour partners. That revenue helps SA Rugby fund local franchises and development programmes.
For young players, the message is clear. The pathway from school rugby to the top of the world game is real.
Nations Championship: The final is still in reach
The inaugural Nations Championship final takes place at Twickenham on Sunday, 29 November.
The Boks sit second in the southern hemisphere standings on 21 points, one behind New Zealand. But South Africa holds a massive +72 points difference advantage (+138 vs +66).
The scenarios are simple. If the Boks beat Ireland, they reach at least 25 points.
A bonus-point win in Dublin guarantees qualification, unless New Zealand also claims a bonus-point win against England.
If New Zealand loses to England earlier on Saturday, any Springbok win in Dublin sends them to the final.
Stay with NOWinSA for continuing Springboks coverage and the road to the Nations Championship final. Read the full breakdown of the tactical errors that nearly cost them the crown in Paris.
