The Malta rugby national team has dropped two places in the latest International Rugby Board (IRB) rankings published this week.

Malta, who on Saturday were beaten by Poland 29-16 in a European Group 2B qualifier at the Hibs Ground, are now placed 55th in the world list.

Poland are the highest-ranked side to climb in the rankings this week as they moved up three places to 33.

Latvia, who beat Croatia 20-8 in Group 2B last weekend, were the best climbers in the list going up four places to 46. World champions South Africa retained top spot, followed by New Zealand, Argentina, Australia and England.

The Maltese will have the opportunity to gain some lost ground next weekend when they face Andorra in a must-win qualifier at La Vella. The Andorrans are currently ranked 62nd in the world.

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