Updated rugby rankings as England fall

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend celebrated his 100th Test match in charge this past weekend, and the 31-20 win over England was a perfect way to mark the occasion.

It was a result that also suddenly saw England slip to fourth in the World Rugby rankings, while ever-impressive France move up to third despite not being able to gain any points after thrashing Wales.

Scotland move up to ninth after proving once again to be a big bogey team for England at home, with Townsend’s team moving ahead of 10th-placed Italy in the rankings after the Azzurri let a half-time lead slip against Ireland before losing 20-13.

Updated rankings after Scotland stunned England again

Scotland celebrate

“I’m quite emotional,” coach Townsend admitted after the epic win in Edinburgh. “After 20 minutes, I thought that was some of the best rugby we’ve ever played. To see our players play with that ambition and accuracy… it’s all you want as a coach.

“There are so many games where you play well but the opposition come back and win. We’re pleased, but there’ll be another challenge next week. Three Test matches in a row: we’ve got to recover well and build on what we did today.”