Bang.

The 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan kicks off with an absolute bang this weekend with some cracking fixtures to look forward.

The opening ceremony raises the curtain at 10.30am on Friday before tournament hosts Japan take on Russia, but Saturday is when things get absolutely ridiculous.

Up first it’s Australia versus Fiji in the early kick-off, followed by France and Argentina. Then perhaps the tie of the pool stages sees holders New Zealand take on South Africa.

Then on Sunday we’ve got Italy vs Namibia, Ireland’s clash with Scotland and England’s pool opener with Tonga. The weekend actually can’t come quick enough. The World Cup is almost upon us!

Friday 20th:
10:30am | Opening Ceremony followed by Japan v Russia | Tokyo | ITV/eir

Saturday 21st:
5:15am | Australia v Fiji | Sapporo | ITV/eir
7:45am | France v Argentina | Tokyo | ITV/eir
10:15am | New Zealand v South Africa | Yokohama City | ITV/eir

Sunday 22nd:
5:45am | Italy v Namibia | Higashiosaka City | ITV/eir
8:15am | Ireland v Scotland | Yokohama City | ITV/eir/RTÉ
10:45am | England v Tonga | Sapporo | ITV/eir