THE FIJI Water Flying Fijians have stormed into ninth place in the World Rugby rankings after their 34-28 victory over Japan in Tokyo last Saturday, climbing above Wales and strengthening their grip on a place among the world’s top 10 rugby nations.
The win was worth more than bragging rights, as Fiji gained 1.05 ranking points to move above Wales and strengthen their position among the world’s leading rugby nations.
With 77.85 points, the Flying Fijians now sit ninth, ahead of Wales on 76.38, while Japan have slipped to 12th following the defeat.
Meanwhile, South Africa remain at the top of the world rankings with 93.09 points, followed by New Zealand on 92.27.
Ireland are third with 88.08 points, while France occupy fourth place on 87.43. England sit fifth, followed by Scotland in sixth and Australia in seventh. Argentina remain eighth with 82.24 points.
For Fiji, the rise to ninth provides a timely boost ahead of a demanding international campaign.
However, the challenge now is to maintain that position when the second leg of the Nations Championship kicks off next month in Europe.
