XV of France: World Rugby Ranking – All Blacks Match Preview

France Eyes Top 3 in World Rugby Rankings with Potential Victory over All Blacks

The World Rugby rankings are experiencing minor shifts week-to-week, mirroring the increasingly homogeneous nature of international rugby. While the rankings themselves hold less weight than in previous years, notably with the expanded 24-team format for the next World cup in Australia, maintaining a strong position remains significant.

Currently holding the fourth spot, France has an opportunity to climb into the top three with a decisive victory against the All Blacks in Hamilton this Saturday. A win by 16 points or more would see them overtake both Ireland and New Zealand,pushing the latter to the foot of the podium. This would be a considerable achievement, as securing such a margin against the All Blacks is a formidable challenge. Even a narrow victory, by a single point, would maintain France’s current position within the “Big Four,” fending off threats from England.

Potential Drop to Fifth if France Loses to All Blacks

Conversely, a defeat in Hamilton, coupled with an English victory over the United States, would see France slip to fifth in the World Rugby rankings. This would mark their first time outside the top four since February 13, 2022, prior to their Grand Slam triumph.

England, who were ranked seventh in December 2024, have been steadily climbing. Recent successes, including two victories against Argentina and a strong performance in the Six Nations with four wins out of five games, have bolstered their position.

Projected World Rugby Rankings on July 23rd:

If France wins by at least one point against New Zealand:

1. South Africa: 92.78
2. France: 90.19
3. Ireland: 89.83
4. New Zealand: 89.68
5. England: 87.64 (assuming victory against the United States)
6. Scotland: 82.67 (assuming victory against Samoa)
7. Australia: 82.08
8. Argentina: 82.05

If France wins by 16 or more points against New Zealand:

1. South Africa: 92.78
2. France: 90.19
3. Ireland: 89.83
4. New Zealand: 89.68
5. England: 87.64 (assuming victory against the United States)
6. Scotland: 82.67 (assuming victory against Samoa)
7. Australia: 82.08
8. Argentina: 82.05

if France loses to New Zealand and England wins against the United States:

1. South Africa: 92.78
2. New Zealand: 92.36
3. Ireland: 89.83
4. England: 87.64
5. France: 87.52
6. Australia: 82.08
7. Argentina: 82.05
8. Scotland: 81.57

Fans can follow the France vs. new Zealand match live with commentary from 9 am on rugbyrama.