( 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 do n'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 . Hide Caption 1 of 11 Photos:Photos: Held every four years , the tournament will run from September 9 to October 23 .