Russia will want to capitalise on this opportunity to play at a second Rugby World Cup. They arrive in Japan by default, after fellow European qualifying nations Romania, Spain and Belgium were docked points for fielding ineligible players.

The Bears coach Lyn Jones would love to see his side get a first-ever World Cup win in Japan, but it will be very difficult. They simply lack class and experience in every department. Russia has suffered some heavy defeats against smaller nations in the run-up to the tournament, which means they are likely to get a few hidings in Pool A.

This is an opportunity most players thought they wouldn’t get, so they will be looking to enjoy themselves and get some much-needed action in Rugby Union’s flagship tournament.

The Rugby World Cup 2019 TV Preview – Can Russia reach the knock-out stages?

Russia shares Pool A with Scotland, Ireland, Samoa and Rugby World Cup hosts Japan. Their first match is the tournament opener against the Cherry Blossoms. You do feel that for a group of players who are used to playing in front of a few hundred people back home, they will be slightly overwhelmed in a sold-out 50,000 capacity Tokyo Stadium.

It is really difficult to see where a win would come from such is the quality of all their opposition. A good result for Russia, in any game, would be a losing margin of 30 points or less, particularly against Ireland and Scotland.

Their key players are former Northampton wing Vasily Artemyev, and full-back Yuri Kushnarev. Coach Lyn Jones has lots of experience in European club rugby, and Russia will have to stick to his game plans to remain anywhere near competitive.

Review of Russia’s Group Matches

Russia vs Japan: Russia has the thankless task of playing their opening game of the World Cup against hosts Japan. If the Cherry Blossoms feel the pressure of expectation then this could be a close game. If the real Japan arrive then Russia can expect a heavy defeat.

Russia vs Samoa: You feel that the team from Samoa have too many players plying their trade at elite level around the world to lose this one. The Bears will be hoping to keep it close and competitive, but their lack of experience will hold them back.

Russia vs Ireland: The Rugby team from Ireland have beaten every major rugby nation in the world over the past 18 months, including the All Blacks. The Bears are looking at a heavy defeat here – let’s just hope it isn’t too embarrassing.

Russia vs Scotland: Scotland has an attack that can score from anywhere, and players such as Stuart Hogg, Sean Maitland and Huw Jones who will be looking to run in a few tries. Expect a big Scotland win.

How to stream every Russia game at The Rugby World Cup 2019™

Kayo Sports will have every match of the Rugby World Cup 2019™ LIVE with no ad-breaks during play. You’ll also get access to a range of great features, including SplitView (which lets you watch up to four different sporting events simultaneously on the same screen, on compatible devices) as well as No Spoilers (hides the scores) and Key Moments (lets you jump to the most important moments of the match – available for selected sports and matches), all of which greatly enhance the viewing experience for those watching on-demand.

Take a moment to review the Kayo 14 days free trial, and then check out the Rugby World Cup 2019™ fixture list below. You can then start streaming team Russia live to a variety of eligible devices, also listed below.

Note: Kayo requires internet & compatible device. Data charges may apply. Kayo service available in Australia only.

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What time do Russia Play? Live TV Fixtures

TV fixtures are shown as Sydney time, so you may need to adjust the hour depending on where you live. Rugby World Cup 2019™ on-demand match replays will be made available following the conclusion of each game – so you will need to consult your Kayo TV Guide during the tournament for exact times.

Russia Group Games Live TV (Sydney time)

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