Springboks reach record-high 95.09 points after 3-1 series win over All Blacks

The Springboks have climbed to a record-high 95.09 World Rugby ranking points after sealing a 3-1 series win over the All Blacks in Baltimore.

Series turnaround and recent form

South Africa lost the opening match of the series at Ellis Park but responded with three successive victories to take the series. The run extends a strong recent record against New Zealand: the Springboks have won eight of their last 10 Tests versus the All Blacks.

Ranking milestone

The Springboks banked 0.75 ranking points from the latest result, taking their total to 95.09. That is the first time the four-time world champions have passed the 95-point mark since World Rugby introduced the rankings in 2003.

Updated World Rugby Rankings (selected)

The updated top 20 listed after the series is shown below. The top five are:

• 1 South Africa 95.09
• 2 New Zealand 91.15
• 3 Ireland 88.08
• 4 France 87.43
• 5 England 85.68

Message from SARU

SARU President Mark Alexander issued congratulations to Rassie Erasmus, Siya Kolisi and the Springbok squad on winning what he called the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry. He also thanked the people of Baltimore and others involved in staging the event. Alexander said the Test in Baltimore was part of World Rugby’s growth strategy in the United States and a step in preparation for the Rugby World Cup 2031.

“This triumph is not only a sporting milestone but a powerful showcase of what it means to be South African, resilience, unity, and pride.

We also express our sincere gratitude to the people of Baltimore, who welcomed this historic occasion with warmth and enthusiasm. The city turned green as thousands of supporters gathered to celebrate our team, creating an atmosphere that will long be remembered. We thank the Baltimore Ravens and the wider sporting community for embracing rugby and helping make this event such a success.

A special word of thanks must go to our partners, the All Blacks, whose collaboration and spirit helped make this series truly exceptional. All of this was possible in partnership with the New Zealand Rugby Union, whose commitment and shared vision ensured the success of this landmark event.

This Test in Baltimore was also part of World Rugby’s growth strategy in the United States, serving as a vital step in preparation for the Rugby World Cup 2031. Together, we are laying the foundation for rugby’s expansion into new markets and ensuring that the sport thrives on a truly global stage.

This victory is a moment of pride for our nation and a symbol of rugby’s power to unite communities across the world.”

What this means

The series win in Baltimore secured the Springboks’ position at the top of the World Rugby rankings and lifted them to a points total not previously reached since the ranking system began in 2003.