By Chris G
June 16 2002

There were some notable international results yesterday. With Argentina beating the Six Nations champions France and the Canucks beating Scotland, albeit a weakened Scotland, could it be that there is a shift in the powerbase of the world rugby game taking place? It seems that not only are the Europeans closing the gap on the Southern Hemispheres 'Big Three' but the American sides are closing in fast on the top Six Nations teams in the world pecking order.

Looking purely at the form book, two sides comprehensively beaten by England in the 6N almost beat two Tri Nations sides on their own turf.

Had Wales taken their chances they could have well upset the Cape Town applecart and beaten the Springboks while Ireland only lost narrowly to the All Blacks. Indeed if Ireland had taken Ronan O'Garas kicking boots to the land of the long white cloud they could have secured there first ever win over the All Blacks.

That the World Champions Australia were also pushed to the wire yesterday by the Maoris, a virtual All Blacks second string, only adds to the argument that indeed the top ten sides in the world are as close in form than they have probably been in the last fifty years. Certainly this morning the world rugby playing field looks a much more level place.

Given Italys showing in this years 6N you could also argue that maybe the Canadians and the US Eagles are pushing them hard in the world standings and lets not forget Samoa who on their day can give just about anyone a hard game.

The big question is though, was this just a one off series of results? A tour too far for some sides while others have eyes on greater prizes as their international season has just begun. Or could this form carry through to next years World Cup.

Who would not bet against the likes of Argentina causing a few more upsets along the way.

The Pumas as dark horses? Maybe, just maybe.