The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have made a significant leap in the latest World Rugby rankings, moving up to eighth place, following a string of impressive performances. This change was announced by World Rugby this morning, reflecting the team’s upward momentum after their recent achievements. Notably, England has dropped to third, while Ireland sits at fourth and Scotland has slipped to ninth.
This latest ranking will play a crucial role in the upcoming draw for the 2027 Rugby World Cup pools, set to take place in Australia on December 3. Unlike the previous tournament format, the upcoming World Cup will feature 24 teams in six different groups, an expansion that aims to include more nations in the competitive landscape of international rugby.
The top six teams as it stands are South Africa, Ireland, New Zealand, France, England, and Argentina, who are categorized into Band 1 for the draw. Fiji now joins Australia, Scotland, Italy, Georgia, and Wales in Band 2. Each pool will consist of one team from each band, ensuring a balanced tournament.
Australia, as the host nation, is confirmed to be in Pool A, competing in the opening match on October 1, 2027. While currently positioned in Band 2, there remains a possibility for Australia to elevate their ranking before the pools are finalized. Should they break into the top six by December, they will automatically secure the top rank in their pool.
The shift in Fiji’s ranking is a testament to the team’s resilience and determination. Their notable victories, such as their 41-17 win over Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup, highlight their growth and potential on the world stage. This optimism is mirrored in their upcoming match schedule against formidable opponents like Ireland, Scotland, and Wales in November’s Autumn Internationals. Coach Mick Byrne continues to focus on developing young talent, which bodes well for the future of Fijian rugby and their chances of maintaining or improving their current ranking.
As the landscape of international rugby evolves, the Flying Fijians are poised for continued success, embodying hope and ambition for what lies ahead in their quest on the global stage.
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