Rugby: All Blacks still number one despite loss

PARIS - The All Blacks have maintained their number one spot in the latest IRB world rankings but they have seen their lead over France slashed.

The All Blacks were knocked out of the World Cup 20-18 by the French in Sunday's quarter-finals and their lead over Bernard Laporte's side is now just 1.25 points.

France leapt from fifth to second place in the rankings while Australia slip to fifth after their 12-10 quarter-final defeat by England.

South Africa remain third and Argentina fourth following their respective quarter-finals wins over Fiji and Scotland.

England remain sixth but trail Australia by less than a point heading into their semi-final against France on Sunday.

Ireland, Scotland, Fiji and Wales complete the top 10, their positions unchanged.

- AFP