France’s late escape against Scotland at Murrayfield has seen them return to fifth in the latest IRB world rankings.
Only 0.16 points had separated Ireland in fifth from France in seventh going into the penultimate round of Six Nations matches, but the 19-17 victory – secured after Jean-Marc Doussain’s late penalty – away from home lifts Les Bleus above both the Irish and Wales.
Ireland were also victorious, running out emphatic 46-7 winners over Italy in Brian O’Driscoll’s final match on home soil. However, this had no impact on their rating as visitors Italy are ranked nine places and more than eight points below them.
The Irish now trail France by just under seven-tenths with Wales only 0.38 adrift of them after slipping one place following the 29-18 loss to England at Twickenham on Sunday.
England remain the leading northern hemisphere nation in the rankings in fourth and fractionally reduced the deficit to Australia above them.
IRB rankings (Top 10)
1. New Zealand 93.81
2. South Africa 89.34
3. Australia 86.88
4. England 85.68
5. France 81.44
6. Ireland 80.76
7. Wales 80.38
8. Samoa 77.34
9. Argentina 76.44
10. Scotland 75.47
Photo: Ian MacNicol/AFP Photo
