Rugby World Cup 2019: When does tournament in Japan start? Favourites, schedule, pools, odds and more

The showpiece event begins this week in Tokyo

The Rugby World Cup is here with first-time hosts Japan set to put on a show.

Holders New Zealand have looked mortal in recent months, giving hope to their rivals and seemingly opening up the competition.

Eddie Jones is confident England can go all the way and enter the tournament as joint-second favourites behind the All Blacks alongside South Africa.

It promises to be a six-week festival of rugby, establishing Japan as a force in the game.

Here is what you need to know about the tournament.

When does the tournament start?

The opening match is on Friday, September 20 when Japan open the tournament against Russia. The match will start at 11:45 BST.

Where can I watch in the UK?

You can watch each game on ITV, while Independent Sport will have you covered with live blogs if you're on the move or at your desk.

When will England begin their pursuit of the Webb Ellis trophy?

England kick off their Pool C fixtures against Tonga.

The game will take place on September 22 at 11:15 BST.

The Rugby World Cup is in Japan for the first time ever (AFP/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