Rugby: Scots get ranking boost after win over South Africa

Scotland were today rewarded for victory over South Africa with their highest-ever place in the world rugby rankings.

As a consequence of the 21-17 triumph in the Murrayfield ESM Autumn Test, skipper Rory Lawson's side moved up two places to No.6.

The rankings mean Scotland are now the leading Celtic nation having leapfrogged Ireland.

Hailing the new ranking coach Andy Robinson said: "What pleases me is the attitude and determination of our squad to keep improving. You climb the world rankings by winning games and it is very important that we build on Saturday's result by delivering again when we face very tough opponents in Samoa in Aberdeen on Saturday."

Gordon McKie, Chief Executive of Scottish Rugby added: "I am delighted for Andy and the players who put so much into Saturday's win against the world champions.

"A winning national team lifts Scotland as a nation, and it helps us all to build upon the recent success we've achieved with increased playing numbers across all levels of the game. It's also helpful in attracting new sponsors, supporters and broadcasters, which in turn allows us to invest more in the sport."

New ranking list: 1. New Zealand, 2. Australia. 3. South Africa. 4, England. 5. France. 6. Scotland. 7. Ireland. 8. Argentina. 9. Wales. 10. Fiji.