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Let the Rugby World Cup 2019 begin!
Let the Rugby World Cup 2019 begin!
With the action ready to kick off live on ITV, never miss a match with our rucking good fixtures guide
With the action ready to kick off live on ITV, never miss a match with our rucking good fixtures guide
Twenty teams, 48 live matches, one unmissable tournament. Bring it on!
The Rugby World Cup 2019, from Friday 20 September, 10.25am, ITV/HD (CH 103/113)
Hold tight, because the very best that international rugby union has to offer are ready to wage war at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. Four years of mud, sweat and tears have led to this moment – and it’s all very much to play for.
It all starts when hosts Japan and Russia kick off the first of 48 live matches on ITV. The Japanese are among a number of lower-ranked nations hoping to cause a stir on the big stage (they did just that four years ago by beating South Africa), but what about the main contenders for the crown?
For England, anything other than winning the tournament is likely to be seen as a disaster. After failing to get out of the group stage on home soil four years ago under Stuart Lancaster, coach Eddie Jones has turned the Red Rose into a pragmatic and pugnacious side capable of going all the way. Now, pitted against both France and Argentina in Pool C, comes what could be their defining moment.
What about Wales? Surely you’re the favourites if you’re ranked number one in the world, right? Don’t be so sure. Coach Warren Gatland, who is leaving his post after the tournament, has been quick to play down his team’s chances after their recent ascent to the top of the international standings. Still, it would be a fitting end to his glittering 12-year tenure if he landed the big one for a nation that’s never got further than the semi-finals.
As for Ireland and Scotland, these Pool B rivals go head to head this Sunday in one of the must-watch matches of the opening weekend. With a blend of flair and grit, the Irish have proven they can beat anyone on their day and would be worthy champions. As for the Scots, they’re expected to give the big boys a few scares along the way.
The southern hemisphere’s finest will also be out in force and looking to assert their dominance on the world stage. Defending champions New Zealand remain the team to beat, despite not being top of the world rankings (never, ever rule out the All Blacks), while Australia and South Africa still have the talent to make a serious run at the trophy.
The 2019 Rugby World Cup is ready for lift off. All you need to do now is get the lowdown on the fixtures. From the pool stage to the final, find out when you need to be in front of the telly with our interactive fixtures guide below…
The Rugby World Cup 2019, from Friday 20 September, 10.25am, ITV/HD (CH 103/113)
TV channels: Channels, content and features available depend on your chosen package. Channel line-ups and content are subject to change at any time and to regional variations.
HD: HD TV set, VHD Box. TiVo box or Virgin TV V6 connected with HDMI cables required for HD channels. Number of inclusive HD channels depends on package.
ITV HD is subject to regional variation. ITV HD is not available where STV HD or UTV HD is available.