Scotland rise above Springboks in World Rankings

A first win over Wales in 11 years has seen Scotland climb to their highest ever position of fifth in the World Rugby Rankings.

Vern Cotter has achieved what none of his predecessors as head coach could do by steering Scotland to an all-time high of fifth place in the World Rugby Rankings.

Following their first win over Wales since 2006 Scotland have moved above Saturday’s vanquished opponents and South Africa in the rankings, which were first introduced in October 2003, after gaining 1.28 rating points.

Scotland are now on 82.18 points, knowing that victory over England at Twickenham in a fortnight’s time would not only keep their Six Nations title bid on track but also make them firm favourites to claim a top four spot by the time the Rugby World Cup 2019 pool draw takes place on 10 May.

Watched by British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland, a number of Scotland players will have done their chances of flying off to New Zealand on tour no harm whatsoever, notably man of the match Finn Russell who took to the goal-kicking duties with aplomb in the absence of injured captain Greig Laidlaw.

The fly-half was successful with all seven of his attempts at goal, kicking five penalties and converting both of Scotland’s tries, scored by wingers Tommy Seymour and Tim Visser.

For Wales, Liam Williams capped another impressive display with his third try of the Championship but Leigh Halfpenny had a rare off-day with the boot as the visitors fell to a 29-13 defeat at Murrayfield.

Latest World Rankings – TOP 10:

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