Rugby Rugby: Irish receive timely boost

World Rugby’s rankings system is a nonsense. Everyone knows that.

Ireland lost 57-15 at Twickenham two weeks ago to cap a largely dreadful 2019, after which they were widely written off as past their sell-by date.

They know they are not the best team in the world right now. So their ascension to world No1 for the first time after a 19-10 win over Wales should be taken with a pinch