(CNN) -- The 2011 Rugby World Cup is nearly upon us, with millions of fans worldwide eager for the tournament in New Zealand to get under way. But while rugby union is hugely popular in the British Isles, parts of continental Europe and areas of the southern hemisphere, it remains a mystery to many global sports fans. So if you don't know a try from a conversion, a lineout out from a scrum, or a ruck from a maul, check out our bluffer's guide and enjoy the six-week long festival of rugby in the comfort of your new knowledge.
The 2011 Rugby World Cup will begin on Friday in New Zealand . The opening match will see the hosts take on Tonga . Held every four years, the tournament will run from September 9 to October 23 .