Champion Springboks extend world rankings lead after Six Nations upsets

Ireland's unexpected loss to England has seen the Boks' closest rivals take a rankings hit, meaning South Africa now hold an almost four-point lead at the top of the table - an advantage that will be hard to overcome when the two teams meet for back-to-back Test matches on South African soil later this year.

England weren't the only team responsible for a Six Nations upset last weekend, however, as Italy also beat Scotland to secure their first win in Rome in 11 years.

The victory was a monumental one for the Azzurri, not only because it broke their losing streak but because it took them above Australia for the first time since the rankings were introduced in 2003.

It could make for an interesting table conversation in the Lynagh house after Louis, son of Wallabies legend Michael, scored on debut for Italy in their triumph.

The outgoing Harlequins man only recently made his decision to move to Benetton next season and represent Italy but was thrown straight in by Gonzalo Quesada.

Italy are now ninth in the world and will have Wales in their crosshairs for next weekend's wooden spoon decider where they will be eager to get back-to-back wins.

England's win over Ireland was loaded with drama as Marcus Smith smashed over a drop-goal to claim a narrow 23-22 win. There were some blockbuster performances across the Red Rose squad with Ben Earl so impressive he earned a perfect 10 in Planet Rugby's player ratings.

Their victory earned them 1.42 points - just less than Italy got for their win - but it does not see the Red Rose rise due to France's win. If Les Bleus had failed to beat against Wales, it would have seen England go into fourth spot.

For Ireland, they do not move places in the rankings but lose ground to the world champion Springboks, who now sit 3.85 points above Andy Farrell's side.

World Rugby rankings

1) South Africa 94.542) Ireland 90.693) New Zealand 89.804) France 87.315) England 86.356) Scotland 82.827) Argentina 80.688) Wales 78.629) Italy 78.0510) Australia 77.48

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