The only way is up

IRELAND’S victory over England at Twickenham has propelled Eddie O’Sullivan’s side to fifth in the world rankings, displacing South Africa in the process.

The defeat also cut England’s lead over the All Blacks to less than two points.

If England were to lose against Wales in their next match, New Zealand will go top, while Italy’s 20-14 victory over Scotland has consolidated their position in 11th place, closing the gap on Samoa, and leaving the Scots further adrift of Wales, whose 22-29 reverse at the hands of higher-ranked France does not alter their position.