Irish close on Boks

IRELAND remain fifth in the IRB world rankings but are now less than two points adrift of South Africa in fourth.

Eddie O’Sullivan’s side recorded a 32-15 win over Jake White’s men at Lansdowne Road on Saturday.

England, meanwhile, fall one place to their lowest ever position of seventh. New Zealand extend their lead at the top of the rankings to over seven ratings points after their stunning away win over France. Despite the defeat, France remain in second. Australia have reclaimed third place from South Africa after they edged past Italy and the Springboks lost to Ireland in Dublin.