After an impressive back-to-back World Cup victory last year, the Springboks have kept their winning spirit alive in 2024.
With eight wins out of ten Tests this year, they celebrated their triumph by securing the Rugby Championship trophy.
Yet, despite this success, they surprisingly don’t hold the title of the world’s number one team.
This remarkable run included a historic achievement: the Springboks secured four straight wins against the All Blacks, marking their first such streak in 75 years.
They also lifted the Freedom Cup for the first time in 15 years, adding to their growing list of accomplishments.
A Shocking Setback
However, a single unexpected loss to Los Pumas in Argentina caused the Springboks to drop to second in the world rankings, allowing Ireland to leapfrog them by default.
Earlier in the season, Ireland demonstrated their prowess by narrowly defeating South Africa 25-24 in Durban, resulting in a tied two-Test series.
Since that match, Ireland has not played, yet they have climbed to the top with 92.12 rating points.
The Springboks follow closely with 91.77, while New Zealand sits at 88.70.
Confusion Over Rankings
This situation has left many scratching their heads.
In a recent article, the Irish Times expressed its confusion over the rankings, noting that South Africa’s current position seems to undermine the rating system.
“Never since the introduction of the official World Rugby men’s rankings 21 years ago has any side made quite such a mockery of the rating system than South Africa right now,” the piece stated.
It went on to praise the Springboks, acknowledging them as the reigning back-to-back World Cup champions who have just claimed the Rugby Championship with authority.
Yet, despite their success, they find themselves just 0.35 points behind Ireland, which many find bizarre.
Former Player Weighs In
John Robbie, a former scrumhalf for Ireland who has spent decades living in South Africa, shared his views on the situation.
He expressed his disdain for rugby rankings, stating, “It’s one of my pet hates. What does it matter? It is a load of nonsense.”
He pointed out that while Ireland has held the number one ranking three times in the past five years, they have yet to secure a World Cup trophy.
In contrast, the Springboks have clinched the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup four times, including their last two victories back-to-back.
For Robbie, the rankings seem like just a distraction from the true measure of a team’s success.
What Lies Ahead?
As the rugby season continues, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the rankings evolve and whether the Springboks can reclaim their rightful place at the top.
With their undeniable talent and recent achievements, one thing is certain: the Springboks are a force to be reckoned with in the world of rugby.
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