England drop to joint lowest ranking ahead of World Cup

NEW LOW: England’s Marcus Smith is tackled by Fiji’s Selesitino Ravutaumada during the Summer Nations Series match at Twickenham. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire

England's troubled build-up to the World Cup is reflected in their descent to eighth in the last global rankings to be published before the tournament begins.

World Rugby has confirmed that Steve Borthwick's side have fallen two places from sixth following their 30-22 defeat by Fiji on Saturday - registering their joint lowest position in the standings' 20-year history.