Sport

Scotland rise in rugby rankings

07:36 am on 28 February 2017

Scotland's first win over Wales in 10 years has resulted in them rising to their highest-ever position of fifth in the World Rugby rankings.

Scotland fullback Stuart Hogg. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Vern Cotter's side came from 13-6 down to beat the Welsh 29-13 in their Six Nations encounter at Murrayfield.

Victory means they move above Wales, who drop to seventh, South Africa and France in the rankings.

Their home victories over Ireland and Wales allows them to aim for a first Triple Crown since 1990 when they face England.

Scotland's rise to fifth, from eighth, in the rankings boosts their hopes of being among at least the second group of seeds when the draw is made later this year for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Finishing outside the top eight means a country will face two other leading nations in their World Cup pool.

Meanwhile, Scottish Rugby has announced their side's final home game against Italy on March 18th will be played in front of a full house of 67,144 for the first time in the Six Nations era.

The previous best crowd for Italy's visit to Edinburgh was 62,188 in 2015.

Scotland will target a first win at Twickenham since 1983 on March 11th.

World Rugby Rankings - 27/02/17

1. New Zealand 94.78 points

2. England 91.02

3. Australia 86.35

4. Ireland 84.18

5. Scotland 82.18

6. South Africa 81.79

7. Wales 81.16

8. France 80.57

9. Argentina 79.91

10. Fiji 76.46