Akilisi Pohiva (right) in an All Blacks jersey speaking at the reopening of Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa in 2017. [Source: RNZ}

The global rugby family will pay its respects for the passing of Tonga Prime Minister and former Tongan Rugby Football Union President Samuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva at the Rugby World Cup.

World Rugby has confirmed they will have a moment’s silence ahead of Tonga’s opening World Cup 2019 match against England on Sunday.

The moment’s silence will be observed after the anthems immediately prior to the Sipi Tau being performed by Tonga.

Meanwhile, Tonga’s Nasi Manu is looking good to make his much-anticipated comeback against England says assistant coach Pita Alatini.

The Tongan number eight was diagnosed with testicular cancer last year and missed the entire 2018 season as he underwent treatment.

He was then named ‘Ikale Tahi captain for this year’s Pacific Nations Cup but had to withdraw from the campaign just before it kicked off because of a pectoral injury.