Japan have moved above their next World Cup opponents Scotland in the world rankings.

The countries will meet in Pool B at Gloucester’s Kingsholm ground on Wednesday, four days after Japan produced the biggest shock in World Cup history by beating the two-times winners South Africa.

The rankings list, published by World Rugby, shows Japan have risen two places to 11th, with Scotland, who have yet to start their World Cup campaign, dropping from 10th to 12th.

South Africa have fallen three places into sixth spot as a result of the 34-32 defeat against Japan in Brighton.

The World Cup hosts England, their Pool A rivals Wales and the Pool D favourites Ireland have each moved up one spot into third, fourth and fifth, respectively.

It means three teams in the same World Cup group – Australia, England and Wales – now occupy the three places immediately below the rankings leaders New Zealand. Further down the list, Georgia are rewarded for their 17-10 World Cup victory over Tonga by jumping three places into 13th.

(PA)