Wallaby win gets them a bronze
Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:24
Argentina's loss is Australia's gain as the Wallabies pip the Pumas for third spot in the International Rugby Board's (IRB) world rankings after last weekend's internationals.
Argentina are now ranked fourth, thanks to their narrow defeat to the 11th-ranked Italy, who remain unchanged in the standings.
Australia's convincing win over a diluted French side also boosted their promotion to third place, who are now over a full rating point clear of the Pumas.
Tonga slipped from 13th to 15th place due to their 20-15 home defeat to Samoa in their Pacific Nations Cup encounter last week, promoting Georgia and Canada to 13th and 14th respectively.
Samoa remain in 12th position but are now significantly behind Italy points-wise thanks to the Azzurri's away win.
Looking on to this weekend's internationals, the number one spot might see a switch should South Africa lose to New Zealand in their opening Tri-Nations clash in Wellington.
The Springboks have held closely onto top honours since the World Cup final, though the All Blacks are no doubt looking for some retribution after a disappointing World Cup campaign.
A win for the All Blacks will see them reclaim the No. 1 position on the IRB standings.
Another potential top order disruption would be France moving into sixth place ahead of Wales, should Les Bleus pull an away win out of the bag against Australia in Brisbane this weekend.
