Bongi denies allegations
REACTION: SA Rugby has issued a response following World Rugby’s investigation into allegations made by England’s Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language by Bongi Mbonambi.
On Thursday, Mbonambi was cleared and will play in Saturday’s World Cup Final against the All Blacks.
Mbonambi – the only specialist hooker in the Springbok squad – was alleged to have addressed the slur at Curry in South Africa’s 16-15 victory in the semifinal last week.
However, having investigated Curry’s claim that Mbonambi called him “white c—”, World Rugby declared the matter “closed”.
In a statement, SA Rugby showed their support for Mbonambi and they also made it clear that the hooker denies the allegations.
“SA Rugby has noted World Rugby’s announcement concerning their investigation into an incident arising from the Rugby World Cup semifinal and welcomes the decision that no further action will be taken,” said the statement.
“Any form of racism is abhorrent to SA Rugby and the Springbok team whose purpose is to do everything in its power to assist in uniting our diverse and multicultural nation.
“Bongi Mbonambi is an experienced, respected and decorated Test player and, needless to say, denied the allegations from the outset.
“SA Rugby has absolute faith in the honesty and integrity of Bongi.
“The team’s focus remains, as it has throughout the week, on Saturday’s match against New Zealand.
“SA Rugby will make no further comment on the matter.”
#⃣REACTION: It was a high-powered legal team, hired by the @Springboks, that helped end the Bongi Mbonambi saga – which turned into a trial-by-media circus 👨⚖️#Rugby🏉#RugbyUnion🌏#RWCFinal 🏆#RWC2023 🏆#RSAvNZL 🇿🇦V🇳🇿
🔗https://t.co/144ujy3lva pic.twitter.com/LKtpbarrtG— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) October 26, 2023
