UPDATE: Mbonambi ‘free to play’ in World Cup final – report

One of the big questions in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup final has been the question of whether Bongi Mbonambi will be cleared to feature for the Springboks.

That cloud of doubt was formed after England flank Tom Curry alleged that Mbonambi aimed a ‘racial slur’ in his direction, which has led to numerous follow-up reports and a whole lot of speculation amidst a stonewall of silence from World Rugby.

However, it’s now reported by reputable UK publication The Times that “World Rugby’s investigation is not expected to reach a conclusion until after the World Cup”.

“The South Africa hooker is now expected to play in the World Cup final against New Zealand on Saturday with the case hanging over him,” the report added.

UPDATE: Another bombshell allegation in Bongi ‘racial slur’ saga

On Monday, the world governing body said it had instituted a formal review to look into the allegations, but by Wednesday afternoon there was still no sign of an outcome.

As the confusing lack of communication has continued, Curry’s club Sale Sharks, broke the silence with a statement defending Curry and deploring the abuse apparently levelled at him and his family.

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SALE SHARKS RELEASED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT IN RELATION TO CURRY:

“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.”

𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗕 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 🦈

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… pic.twitter.com/f2faQg5KHb

— Sale Sharks 🦈 (@SaleSharksRugby) October 25, 2023

SO WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH THE INVESTIGATION?

According to World Rugby chief communications officer Dominic Rumbles, the matter was still under review.

“We can’t add any more to that statement as we said this is a World Rugby briefing, but not a Rugby World Cup one. We will provide an update as soon as there’s something to update. The first part of the review is about evidence gathering and we’ll update as soon as that’s done.”

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SA RUGBY IS LOOKING INTO THE MATTER

SA Rugby, the national rugby governing body in South Africa, on Sunday responded by confirming they are looking into the incident.

“We are aware of the allegation, which we take very seriously, and are reviewing the available evidence. We will engage with Bongi if anything is found to substantiate the claim,” an SA Rugby statement read.

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