RUGBY’S GOVERNING BODY World Rugby has today unveiled its first ever official rankings for the women’s 15-a-side game.
The rankings are based on the same formula as the long-standing men’s rankings (explained here if you’re into that sort of thing), and WR has painstakingly compiled them based on international results dating back to 1987.
Ireland, the reigning Six Nations champions, sit fourth with reigning world champions England just over three ranking points ahead in third spot. Four-time World Champions New Zealand top the pile ahead of France.
WR chairman Bernard Lapasset said:
After the success of Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2014 and the excitement building up to the next edition in 2017 in Ireland, it’s vital for international teams to have a rankings focus that will drive exposure and interest as well as increasing the competition schedule, as it encourages member unions to play more test matches.
“It’s a positive step for one of the fastest growing team sports in the world, as it brings parity with the men’s game.”
