The Welsh rugby team's recent performance has left fans and critics alike questioning their place in the global rankings. After a brief moment at the top in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Wales has slipped to 14th place, a record low. But here's where it gets controversial: even with a historic win over England at Twickenham, they still wouldn't crack the top 10.
The team's current deficit of 4.75 points from Italy, currently ranked 10th, is a significant hurdle to overcome. A win over Japan in the summer and a narrow victory over the Brave Blossoms in November have given Wales a glimmer of hope, but it's not enough to break through the glass ceiling and join the elite.
The rankings are a stark reminder of the challenges Wales faces in reclaiming their former glory. With South Africa and New Zealand firmly in the top two spots, and England not receiving points for a perceived home banker, Wales' path to the top is fraught with obstacles.
But all is not lost. A win over England could see Wales rise to 5th place if France enjoys a narrow win over Ireland. And with Italy hosting Scotland, a home win could see the teams swap places, with Italy moving up to 9th.
However, the real test for Wales lies in their upcoming encounters with Japan and Italy. A win over Japan could see them edge closer to the top 10, but it's the final weekend encounter with Italy that could be their make-or-break moment.
So, will Wales be able to reclaim their place among the world's elite? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the road to the top is fraught with challenges, and the team will need to pull out all the stops to succeed. And this is the part most people miss: the real battle is not just on the field, but also in the hearts and minds of the fans and critics who will be watching every move.
