For the first time in nearly 47 months the All Blacks have regained the No 1 spot in World Rugby’s rankings after a 24-41 bonus point win over Argentina in Cordoba, combined with Australia’s shock 38-22 upset over South Africa.
The result dethroned the Springboks, who had held the top position since November 2021, and ended New Zealand’s long wait to return to the summit after slipping as low as fifth in 2022.
Replacement hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho sealed the victory with two late tries, ensuring the All Blacks kicked off their Rugby Championship campaign in dominant fashion.
🌍 A 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙪𝙥 in the World Rugby Men’s rankings after this weekend’s action 💪#GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/G521dDSq9W
— Guinness Men’s Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) August 18, 2025
