The All Blacks reclaimed the top spot in the World Rugby rankings following a 33-16 victory over the Springboks at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, according to World Rugby data. New Zealand capitalized on the head-to-head fixture to leapfrog South Africa, who entered the opening Test of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry sitting at number one.
Rankings Shift and Points Breakdown After Ellis Park Test
According to World Rugby, South Africa surrendered 1.75 rating points following the 17-point defeat in Johannesburg. New Zealand collected those exact 1.75 points, elevating their total to 94.03. The victory gives the All Blacks a 1.82-point advantage over the Springboks, who dropped to second place with 92.21 points.
The visiting side produced a clinical display in the opening Test, outscoring the hosts five tries to one. Will Jordan crossed twice, while Josh Moorby, Fabian Holland, and Luke Jacobson also scored tries for New Zealand. Andre Esterhuizen scored South Africa’s only try, with Cheslin Kolbe converting the remainder of the Springboks’ points.
Immediate Stakes for the Upcoming Rematch in Cape Town
The battle for the top ranking continues next weekend when the two teams meet again in Cape Town for the second Test. According to tournament tracking, South Africa can immediately reclaim the summit with a victory of any kind over New Zealand. The world number one ranking will once again be on the line when the two rivals collide.
Did you know? The winner of head-to-head matches between the top-ranked teams guaranteed a change at the summit due to the precise rating points exchange system managed by World Rugby.
Current World Rugby Rankings Snapshot
Following the weekend fixture in Johannesburg, the top tier of the World Rugby rankings stands as follows:
- New Zealand – 94.03 (+1.75)
- South Africa – 92.21 (-1.75)
- Ireland – 88.08
- France – 87.43
- England – 85.68
- Scotland – 84.78
- Argentina – 83.13
- Australia – 82.67
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rating points did New Zealand gain for defeating South Africa?
According to World Rugby, New Zealand gained 1.75 rating points for their 33-16 victory at Ellis Park.
What is South Africa’s current ranking and point total?
Following the defeat, South Africa dropped to second place in the World Rugby rankings with 92.21 points.
Can South Africa reclaim the number one ranking next week?
Yes. According to tournament scenarios, a victory of any kind for the Springboks in Cape Town will move them back above New Zealand.
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