Ireland climbs World Rugby rankings after thrashing England in thrilling Six Nations clash in Dublin

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The 2026 Six Nations championship delivered a weekend full of drama, excitement, and a reminder of why rugby continues to captivate fans across Europe.

Ireland’s emphatic 42-21 victory over England on Saturday not only showcased their skill but also shifted the balance in the World Rugby rankings, signaling their return as a top-tier Northern Hemisphere contender just 18 months before the next World Cup.

For Irish supporters, the triumph was especially sweet.

After a rocky start to the tournament — including a tough outing in Paris and a near-upset by Italy — Saturday’s performance was a statement of intent.

Andy Farrell Praises His Team’s Effort and Resilience

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell didn’t mince words after the match.

“It must be nice to be Irish today,” he said, capturing the elation of fans and players alike.

Beyond the scoreboard, Farrell highlighted the team’s ability to rise above recent criticisms that suggested they were past their peak.

“I am ecstatic for the players mainly, and for the fans who turned out today in their thousands,” Farrell added.

“Seeing the intensity, the commitment, and the teamwork reminds everyone just how capable this squad is.”

England Faces a Reality Check After Consecutive Defeats

England, meanwhile, endured their second straight Six Nations loss.

The 42-21 defeat all but ended hopes of claiming their first Six Nations title in six years.

Once viewed as favorites, Eddie Jones’ squad now faces significant questions about depth, strategy, and execution under pressure.

As a result of Saturday’s results, Ireland jumped two spots to third in the World Rugby rankings, while England slipped to fifth — a notable shake-up that will influence perceptions heading into World Cup qualifying campaigns.

Scotland’s Comeback Sparks Ranking Gains

Scotland, too, had reason to celebrate after a thrilling 26-23 second-half comeback over Wales.

Head coach Gregor Townsend credited the turnaround to tactical brilliance in the final minutes.

The victory earned Scotland 0.61 ranking points, propelling them to seventh place in the global rankings, just ahead of Australia.

Although Wales now finds themselves in 12th, the result keeps the door ajar for Scotland’s Six Nations ambitions, adding intrigue to the remaining fixtures.

Springboks Hold Onto Top Spot

As always, the Springboks continue to dominate the rugby world, maintaining their position at number one with 93.94 ranking points.

New Zealand remains second, followed closely by Ireland and France, illustrating the competitive intensity at the top of the sport.

World Rugby Rankings Overview

South Africa – 93.94

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New Zealand – 90.33
Ireland – 88.89
France – 88.40
England – 85.62
Argentina – 84.97
Scotland – 81.71
Australia – 81.53
Fiji – 81.14
Italy – 79.81
Japan – 74.09
Wales – 73.62
Georgia – 73.18
Uruguay – 69.19
Spain – 69.16
USA – 68.26
Chile – 66.72
Tonga – 66.66
Portugal – 66.53
Samoa – 66.43

These rankings highlight the shifting dynamics of international rugby, with emerging powers like Georgia, Uruguay, and Spain challenging more established sides in lower tiers.

The Broader Impact on the Northern Hemisphere

Ireland’s win isn’t just a one-off result; it reinforces their growing confidence in critical matches against major opponents.

For England, the loss underscores the ongoing need for squad rotation, injury management, and tactical adaptation — key elements for long-term success in the Six Nations and beyond.

Scotland’s narrow victory demonstrates the fine margins that can determine not only match results but also World Rugby rankings.

Every point earned or lost has ripple effects that may influence seedings for the World Cup draw and preparation strategies for the next international season.

What’s Next?

Attention now turns to the upcoming Six Nations fixtures, where Ireland will look to consolidate their resurgence, England must regroup to salvage pride and ranking points, and Scotland will aim to build momentum.

Coaches, analysts, and fans will be closely monitoring player form, injuries, and tactical innovations.

Beyond the tournament, these ranking changes send a clear signal: the battle for Northern Hemisphere dominance is far from over, and with the World Cup approaching, every match carries immense strategic and psychological weight.

Summary

Ireland’s 42-21 triumph over England in the 2026 Six Nations has reshaped the World Rugby rankings, lifting Ireland to third and dropping England to fifth.

Scotland’s comeback win over Wales also boosted their standing to seventh, while the Springboks remain firmly at the top.

Coaches and fans alike are reflecting on what these results mean for team morale, rankings, and World Cup preparation.

With the Six Nations still underway, Ireland appears reinvigorated, England faces pressing questions, and Scotland keeps its faint hopes alive, highlighting the unpredictable excitement of Northern Hemisphere rugby.