Team pips Australia to third, raising the stakes for the Ashes tour later this year. SA lost seven rating points.
England beat South Africa by 177 runs in the fourth and final Test at Old Trafford to complete a 3-1 series win.
Despite losing regular wickets, England took their lead to 360 at stump on day 3.
South Africa struggled to 220-9 on day two of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, where they trail England by 142 runs.
Kagiso Rabada took the prize wicket of Ben Stokes as South Africa held England to 260 for six on first day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford on Friday.
Faf du Plessis wants his batsmen to raise their game as they look to finish their lengthy tour of England with a flourish in the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
Ashwin back to second position among bowlers; Pradeep, Maharaj attain career-best rankings.
Moeen Ali takes a hat-trick to wrap up 239-run win against South Africa in the third Test at The Oval on Monday.
England are six wickets from victory in the third Test at The Oval after South Africa close the fourth day on 117-4 - chasing 492 to win.
England end a rain-hit third day with a lead of 252 and nine second-innings wickets in hand against South Africa at The Oval.
