The Springboks have retained their number one spot in the World Rugby Rankings following an emphatic 42-24 victory over Italy at the Loftus Versfeld on Saturday evening.

With the All Blacks defeating France 31-27 earlier that day, the Springboks needed a win to maintain their top ranking. The reigning world champions quickly took the lead, with captain Jesse Kriel scoring a try just 10 minutes into the match.

The Springboks continued to apply pressure in Italy’s 22, and Morne van den Berg scored his first Test try following a dominant scrum. Van den Berg added his second try just before halftime, giving the home team a commanding lead.

Springboks top the rankings, All Blacks keep second spot

In the second half, Rassie Erasmus brought on Bomb Squad, consisting of Bongi Mbonambi, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Vincent Koch, RG Snyman and Franco Mostert. Three more tries were scored in the second half to see the Springboks secure a 42-24 win in an entertaining encounter.

Although South Africa won, they could not improve their ranking since they defeated a team significantly lower than them.

Can the Springboks maintain number 1 in the rankings?

The Springboks are holding the number one position, with New Zealand, Ireland, and France right on their heels in the top four.

The Boks have 92.78 rating points, but their 2.42-point cushion over the All Blacks was eradicated after the three-time champions defeated France.

Springboks still top the latest World Rugby Rankings

1 South Africa 92.78
2 New Zealand 90.98 (+0.62)
3 Ireland 89.83
4 France 88.90 (-0.62)
5 Argentina 84.97
6 England 84.73
7 Scotland 82.36
8 Australia 81.52
9 Fiji 80.07
10 Italy 77.77

Will the Boks still remain top at the end of the year?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.

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