Barbados' victory over the Bahamas secured them a two-place rise to 63, as well as a place in Round 3b of Americas qualifying, where they will face the experienced duo of USA and Canada.

Paraguay, meanwhile, overcame Brazil 45-8 to seize the early initiative in South America's Round 2 competition, and also rose one place to 30th. Paraguay have their sights set on a place in Round 3a of RWC qualifying, where they would face the daunting task of matches against Argentina and Uruguay.