Wallaroos climb World Rugby rankings after the USA's South Africa loss

The Wallaroos have moved ahead of the USA Women’s Eagles in the World Rugby rankings without having played a game over the weekend.

On Saturday 4 July, Jack Hanratty’s USA lost 34-21 to the Springbok Women at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.

It was a comprehensive 80 minutes from Swys de Bruin’s side in a fixture that served as the opening act to the Springbok Men’s 45-21 win over England.

In a similar display of dominance, South Africa raced into a commanding half-time lead. In the opening 40 minutes, Ayanda Malinga, Unam Tose, Babalwa Latsha and a Logan Welman brace meant that the Boks had a 29-0 lead.

After the break Vainah Ubisi’s try put South Africa beyond reach. The Eagles’ late resurgence – fuelled by Freda Tafuna, Ashley Cowdrey and Elizabeth Cook tries – contributed to an enthralling finale, even if the game was already won at that stage.

“We wanted to lay down a marker that we are a serious team,” Latsha, South Africa’s newly named captain, said.

“Yes, we fell away a bit in the second half, but now we have a clear idea of the things we can improve in the coming week. Next weekend’s game will show our ability to adapt and grow.”

The result has seen the Eagles fall behind their Pacific Four Series rivals, Australia, in the World Rugby rankings.

It is also feasible that a second win for South Africa against the USA this weekend at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria could move the Springboks ahead of the USA in the World Rugby rankings.

Updated World Rugby Women’s Rankings Top 15

1. England – 98.09 (-)
2. New Zealand – 91.60 (-)
3. Canada – 89.78 (-)
4. France – 84.59 (-)
5. Ireland – 78.69 (-)
6. Italy – 74.79 (-)
7. Scotland – 74.40 (-)
8. Australia – 74.03 (+1)
9. USA – 73.07 (-1)
10. South Africa – 72.89 (-)
11. Japan – 69.72 (-)
12. Wales – 65.22 (-)
13. Fiji – 64.39 (-)
14. Spain – 63.68 (-)
15. Samoa – 59.31 (-)