The 2011 tournament opens on 9 September 2011 when hosts New Zealand take on Tonga at Eden Park in Auckland. Two days later the Springboks begin their campaign against Wales in Wellington. The tournament concludes six weeks later back at Eden Park for the final (23 October).
It will be the Springboks' fifth tilt at the title and, having won the title twice already, they will be chasing the added distinction of becoming the first nation to successfully defend the Webb Ellis Cup.
"It may seem a long way away of after such disappointing results in the Vodacom Tri-Nations, but the lesson of history is that the Springboks have every chance of retaining the Rugby World Cup," said Oregan Hoskins, president of the South African Rugby Union (SARU).
"Four years ago results were probably even more concerning but a year later John Smit lifted the trophy and l'm sure South Africans will unite behind the team as they did four years ago.
"The soccer World Cup saw the country unite behind Bafana Bafana and we want them to keep the flag flying for the Springboks over the next 12 months and then all the way to the final."
The Unite campaign will gather momentum much nearer kick off but, for now, Springbok supporters can unite the behind the team by going to www.unite2011.co.za, registering their support and earning the chance to earn some special prizes.
The first winner drawn from those registering will win a VIP trip for two to the Springboks' Test against Ireland at the new Aviva Stadium in Dublin on 6 November.
Rugby World Cup fact file:
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