IRELAND have dropped to fourth in the new IRB world rankings, despite securing an easy victory over Italy in their Six Nations opener.
England's comeback against Wales at the Millennium Stadium has sent Stuart Lancaster's side ahead of Ireland into third place.
Claiming an eighth consecutive victory with a 26-3 win over the Italians in Rome could not prevent Ireland's fall in the rankings from third place, which they established following victories over Australia and South Africa in the November.
The All Blacks remain on top of the rankings with South Africa second-placed.
On Saturday, Ireland face their next opponents, France, who remain in seventh.
WORLD RUGBY RANKINGS: .@EnglandRugby move up to third after win against @WelshRugbyUnion: http://t.co/vgvwv1qvkK pic.twitter.com/tyurGzPG6G
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) February 9, 2015
See More: IRB World Ranking, Ireland
