Rankings matter little when preparing for a World Cup, but Australia falling to No.6 in the latest world rugby rankings is just another small reminder of the huge task facing the Wallabies this year.

World Rugby released their updated rankings on Monday, with the only change in the top 10 being Wales rising above the Wallabies to No.5.

Despite the Wallabies winning the last 10 matches against Wales, their Six Nations victory over Ireland last Saturday in Cardiff helped Warren Gatland’s team edge ahead.

Also contributing to the fall was Australia’s dismal record in 2014.

Just two wins in the Rugby Championship – including losing to Argentina in Mendoza – was followed by a Spring tour when Bernard Foley’s late drop goal in their triumph over Wales in November preceded defeats to France, Ireland and England.

Australia face a tough battle just to get to the knockout phase of the World Cup in October given they’ve been drawn in the same pool with Wales and hosts England, who are ranked No.4.

Fiji (No.12) and Uruguay (No.20) round out Pool A.

WORLD RUGBY RANKINGS – TOP 10

1. New Zealand

2. South Africa

3. Ireland

4. England

5. Wales

6. Australia

7. France

8. Argentina

9. Samoa

10. Scotland