Ireland have consolidated fourth place in the latest World Rugby rankings after victory over England in Dublin on Saturday.
Joe Schmidt's men will now be top seeds in the draw for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan as they look to win the tournament for the first time.
Ireland's Iain Henderson scores for Ireland. Image: ©INPHO/James Crombie
New Zealand remain the top side on the planet by some margin with Six Nation's winners England in second. Australia sit in third spot ahead of Ireland.
Scotland's impressive campaign sees them move into fifth spot ahead of Wales, South Africa and France. Argentina are currently ranked ninth.
Japan 2019 set to connect, create and go forward to convert a nation https://t.co/Bxq4i5cjSg
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) March 17, 2017
The draw for the pool stages of the next World Cup is due to take place on 10th May. Speaking ahead of it, CEO and President of the 2019 World Cup organising committee Akira Shimazu said: "Japan is preparing to welcome the world. We are committed to Rugby World Cup and we’re aiming to deliver the best yet. It will be a celebration of rugby and of Japanese culture as we will show off the best of our country and our hospitality on a global stage.”
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