Here’s how the Springboks can end the weekend ranked No 1

The Springboks could end the weekend as the No 1-ranked team in the world if they beat Scotland comprehensively on Sunday, 10 September.

Kick-off is at 17:45 (SA time).

ALSO READ | All Blacks coach Ian Foster not panicking after France hiding

Top-ranked Ireland did not gain anything from their 82-8 win over Romania on Saturday due their opponents’ lowly world ranking, while there are double points on offer for the Springboks against the Scots.

FOR THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS VISIT THE SAPEOPLE WEBSITE

Andy Farrell’s men have topped the rankings for the past 14 months, but they will be overhauled by South Africa if the Springboks defeat Scotland by a margin of more than 15 points.

FOLLOW | The South African goes GREEN and GOLD for Rugby World Cup 2023

That would give Jacques Nienaber’s side an additional 0.88 points, which is more than they need to make up the current 0.74 differential to the Irish.

ALSO READ | Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber shrugs off SPYING fears

France defeated the All Blacks on Friday night, but their victory was not be enough to overtake the Springboks.

However, should the Springboks lose against Scotland, they will relinquish second spot and drop down to third place, staying above the All Blacks in fourth.

Scotland could also make significant gains if they pull off an upset victory over the Springboks.

DID YOU KNOW | Who will be the referee for Springboks’ World Cup opener?