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England © Getty Images
Triumphant England players after the Rugby World Cup final

England on top of the world

23/11/2003

 


England’s win in the epic Rugby World Cup final has firmly placed them on top of the Official IRB World Rankings.

The red roses emulated Australia's achievements of 1991 and 1999, in winning the World Cup away from home.

Despite just losing the RWC final in extra time Australia are ranked third behind New Zealand who earn the runner’s up spot after their convincing win over France in the third and fourth play off.

With the exception of the All Blacks being ranked higher than Australia, every competing country at the World Cup Finals is currently ranked higher than every opponent they have beaten.

During the Tournament, Australia cut New Zealand's lead over them from 6 points to around 3.5

The rankings have provided an accurate picture of strength throughout the Tournament, with 44 of the 48 matches (92%) won by the higher rated side.

The top ten of the latest Official IRB World Rankings:

1 England 93.99 points

2 New Zealand 90.12

3 Australia 86.58

4 France 82.71

5 South Africa 81.23

6 Ireland 80.53

7 Argentina 78.02

8 Wales 76.92

9 Scotland 76.36

10 Samoa 73.46

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