Six Nations Rugby: England not number one yet - Dawson

Matt Dawson tonight insisted that England will only consider themselves the best in the world if they win next year’s Rugby World Cup.

Today’s 45-11 Lloyds TSB Six Nations victory over Ireland moved England above New Zealand and top of the official world rankings - the first time the position has been held by a Northern Hemisphere side.

While the injured scrum-half praised the achievements of Clive Woodward’s side, he insisted that the true test lies in the 2003 tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

‘‘England may have gone up to number one in the world rankings, but I don’t think any of the players or management will think they’re the best in the world until they lift the World Cup,’’ he said.

‘‘Yes, the stats are great and it’s a fantastic honour to be rated as number one in the world.

‘‘But the World Cup is where all the kudos is and that’s where everyone strives to be successful.

‘‘This is a great honour but lifting that trophy is number one.’’