England team train ahead of Rugby World Cup Bronze Final match against Argentina
South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi is reportedly free to play in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final despite an ongoing investigation into his conduct. Mbonambi was accused by Tom Curry of using a racial slur during England’s semi-final defeat by the Springboks last Saturday.
England flanker Curry accused Mbonambi of calling him a “white c***” during South Africa’s 16-15 victory over England last weekend. World Rugby has confirmed it is investigating the allegations.
The governing body says it takes reports of discriminatory behaviour “extremely seriously” and will look into the claims. Despite that, South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber will apparently have Mbonambi available for Saturday’s showdown with New Zealand.
The 32-year-old is free to play for South Africa despite the ongoing investigation into an alleged racial slur. An outcome into the probe is not expected until after Saturday’s clash.
A statement by World Rugby said: “World Rugby takes allegations of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously.
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“We can confirm that we are formally reviewing the allegation made by England’s Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final on Saturday.
“World Rugby will not be making any further comment until the conclusion of the process.”
Curry was heard repeating the alleged phrase to referee Ben O’Keeffe and asking what to do. The microphone picked up the England star saying: “Sir, sir, if their hooker calls me a white c***, what do I do?”
O’Keeffe replied: “Nothing, please.”
There was then an altercation between Curry and Mbonambi after the match, with the pair seemingly not shaking hands. Some fans believe Mbonambi was speaking Afrikaans and saying ‘wit kant’, meaning ‘white side’.
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The English Rugby Football Union has reported the incident, prompting the investigation by World Rugby. Curry has since received abuse on social media, including death threats. The 25-year-old’s club, Sale Sharks, have condemned the abuse.
They said: “Sale Sharks’ owners, players, coaches and staff are absolutely appalled by the nature and level of disgusting abuse directed at Tom Curry and his family in relation to an incident in the England v South Africa World Cup semi-final.
“Everyone at the club stands fully and proudly behind Tom and we look forward to welcoming him back to Carrington.”
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