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Ireland have just taken a significant step up the World Rugby rankings
By Nathaniel Cope
Six Nations champions Ireland have leapfrogged England and into second in the World Rugby rankings.
Joe Schmidt's side defeated Scotland 28-8 on Saturday, while England slumped to a 22-16 defeat against France in Paris, which resulted in a swing of 2.52 rating points in Ireland's favour.
Ireland are over six points behind world number one New Zealand, and hold a 0.35 point advantage over England ahead of their match on Saturday.
The Irish are seeking just their third Grand Slam in their history when they take on Eddie Jones' side at Twickenham.
Joe Schmidt determined to win the Grand Slam
Scotland have dropped to sixth, behind South Africa, while France moved up two spots to eighth, ahead of Argentina and Fiji.
Johnny Sexton fires word of warning ahead of Grand Slam match at Twickenham
World Rugby Rankings:
1. (1) New Zealand 93.99
2. (3) Ireland 87.85
3. (2) England 87.50
4. (4) Australia 85.49
5. (6) South Africa 83.81
6. (5) Scotland 83.80
7. (7) Wales 83.07
8. (10) France 79.44
9. (8) Argentina 78.22
10. (9) Fiji 77.93
11. (11) Japan 75.66
12. (12) Georgia 73.80
13. (13) Tonga 71.87
14. (14) Italy 71.13
15. (15) USA 69.23
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In your opinion because he's a Crusader. We talk about parochialism in our game but people like you and Jacko take it to a whole new level in your consistent antagonism to Crusader players.
Go to commentsProbably blooded more new players than any other country but still gets stick. If any other coach did same , they would get ripped to shreds. When you are at the top , people will always try to knock you down.
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