The All Blacks have begun their climb back up the world rankings, gaining one spot after their win over the Springboks at Ellis Park.
After falling to an all-time low of fifth in the world following last weekend's loss to the South Africans, their bounce-back performance lifted them above England and just 0.02 ranking points behind the third-placed Springboks.
Under the world ranking system, there is an extra penalty if the margin of victory exceeds 15 points, so the All Blacks' 35-23 win in Johannesburg on Sunday morning fell just short of seeing the All Blacks overtake South Africa.
It was a performance to silence the critics, as the All Blacks played with freedom, got some early respect through their physicality and forced the Springboks into some very early changes, were confident under the high ball and defended well.