How the world rugby rankings table looks ahead of the Six Nations

Wales are back in action on February 1 in Cardiff when they begin their Six Nations title defence.

The 2019 Grand Slam champions face Italy in the first instance, and host both France and Scotland in the Welsh capital, too. You can see their full fixtures and kick-off times here.

So where do all the Six Nations Championship competitors sit in the world rugby rankings as the tournament edges closer?

Well, after world champions South Africa - who occupy the top spot - and third-placed World Cup finishers New Zealand in second, Eddie Jones' World Cup finalists England are the highest-ranking team competing in the Six Nations.

One spot behind them is Wales, in fourth. They actually headed into the World Cup ranked fifth after claiming the top spot earlier last summer.

Ireland - who were knocked out at the quarter-finals - head into the Six Nations under new boss Andy Farrell ranked fifth, with France in seventh, Scotland in ninth, and Italy in 12th spot in the rankings.

Wales are currently third favourites with the bookies. You can see how the final Six Nations table is predicted to look here.

How the world rugby rankings look pre-Six Nations

1. South Africa (94.19 points)
2. New Zealand (92.11)
3. England (88.82)
4. Wales (85.02)
5. Ireland (84.45)
6. Australia (81.90)
7. France (80.88)
8. Japan (79.28)
9. Scotland (79.23)
10. Argentina (78.31)
11. Fiji (76.21)
12. Italy (72.04)