Japan vs Russia live stream: How to watch Rugby World Cup 2019 opening fixture online and on TV

The tournament kicks off on Friday with the hosts taking on Russia in Tokyo

Rugby World Cup 2019 in numbers

Japan and Russia kick off the 2019 Rugby World Cup today.

Six weeks of exciting rugby all starts here with the hosts against one of world rugby's minnows to kick things off in earnest.

They will go toe to toe in the capital city Tokyo on Friday morning.

It promises to be an exciting occasion and not one to be missed.

Here's everything you need to know ahead of the big kick-off:

When does the tournament start?

The opening match follows the opening ceremony, with hosts Japan opening the tournament against Russia on Friday 20 September.

The match will start at 11:45 BST.

Where can I watch in the UK?

You can watch each game on ITV, while Indy Sport will have you covered with live blogs if you're on the move or at your desk. You can also stream the game on mobile devices and on your computer via the ITV website.

The Rugby World Cup begins on Friday (Getty)

Who is playing and what are the pools?

There are 20 teams competing in Japan and they are divided into four pools, with the top two progressing to the quarter-finals.

Pool A: Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Russia, Samoa

Pool B: New Zealand, South Africa, Italy, Namibia, Canada

Pool C: England, France, Argentina, United States, Tonga

Pool D: Australia, Wales, Georgia, Fiji, Uruguay

The favourites

New Zealand 5/4

South Africa 4/1

England 4/1

Ireland 9/1

Wales 9/1

Australia 12/1

France 33/1

Argentina 40/1

Scotland 50/1

Japan 150/1

Latest updates

Please allow a moment for the live blog to load

[20 September 2019 10:36 · Samuel Lovett]

I mean, I know I've been in Japan for four days now, but safe to say my knowledge of Japanese history and culture is somewhat limited. Please bear with me...

[20 September 2019 10:39 · Samuel Lovett]

Two dancers dressed in oversized robes are the focus of the performance now as a miniature sized mountain slowly rises from the centre. I know this one! That’s Mount Fuji. GCSE geography coming into good use here.

[20 September 2019 10:41 · Samuel Lovett]

They're introducing the 20 different nations now, with each one represented by a small group of children. No guesses for which country drew the largest cheer.

[20 September 2019 10:41 · Samuel Lovett]

Yes, you at the back, you're right. It was Namibia.

[20 September 2019 10:43 · Samuel Lovett]

All 20 groups have now broken out into a rendition of 'World in Union' as footage from past World Cups is beamed onto Mount Fuji.

[20 September 2019 10:45 · Samuel Lovett]

Mount Fuji rapidly dissolves to reveal a plinth, atop of which is standing Richie McCaw himself with the Webb Ellis Cup in both hands. He raises it above his head to draw a thunderous roar from the crowd. He's loving it. We're loving it. More of the same!

[20 September 2019 10:46 · Samuel Lovett]

BOOM! Up go the pyrotechnics. A slight pause in proceedings as we get ready for the next stage of the ceremony.

[20 September 2019 10:48 · Samuel Lovett]

Now for some words. One of the World Rugby chiefs is currently giving a speech to the crowds. "Time to make history," he says.

[20 September 2019 10:50 · Samuel Lovett]

Rather than repeating everything that's being said word-for-word, here's some footage from the ceremony to enjoy:

[20 September 2019 10:52 · Samuel Lovett]

Turn for Crown Prince Akishino to address the crowd. After a quick speech, he declares that the World Cup is officially under way. Another booming cheer rings around the stadium.