Springboks Rise to Second in World Rugby Rankings After Beating Australia
CAPE TOWN — 23 August 2025
The Springboks climbed to second place in rugby’s world rankings after defeating Australia 30-22 in Cape Town on Saturday, overtaking Ireland in the standings.
South Africa gained 0.23 ranking points with the victory, lifting their total to 90.01. Australia dropped 0.23 points but remained sixth on 84.85 points.
New Zealand retain top position with 92.51 points regardless of Saturday’s later result against Argentina. The All Blacks will extend their lead:
- To 92.71 points for winning by fewer than 7 points
- To 92.81 points for winning by 7 or more points
Updated World Rankings:
| 1 | New Zealand | 92.51 | ||
| 2 | (↑1) | South Africa | 90.01 | (+0.23) |
| 3 | (↓1) | Ireland | 89.83 | |
| 4 | France | 87.82 | ||
| 5 | England | 87.64 | ||
| 6 | Australia | 84.85 | (-0.23) | |
| 7 | Argentina | 81.60 | ||
| 8 | Scotland | 81.57 | ||
| 9 | Fiji | 80.50 | ||
| 10 | Italy | 77.77 |
The Rugby Championship continues as teams prepare for next month’s fixtures.