‘What do I do?’ England star accuses Springbok of racial assault throughout World Cup semi-final

England’s Tom Curry accused South African opponent Bongi Mbonambi of a racial assault throughout the Springboks’ Rugby World Cup semi-final win, it has been revealed.

The alleged incident happened half-an-hour into South Africa’s thrilling 16-15 win over the English on the Stade de France.

With England main 9-3, Curry approached referee Ben O’Keeffe to make the allegation.

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“Sir, Sir, if their hooker calls me a white c***, what do I do?” Curry could possibly be heard asking on the ref’s microphone.

O’Keeffe replied: “Nothing please.”

He is then heard to say “I will be on it” nevertheless it’s unclear whether or not that is in reference to the allegation or one thing else, given he doesn’t take any motion towards Mbonambi.

The alleged slur itself couldn’t be heard, solely Curry’s recollection of it.

England's openside flanker Tom Curry (R) runs with the ball during the France 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final match between England and South Africa at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, on the outskirts of Paris, on October 21, 2023. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)
England’s openside flanker Tom Curry (R) runs with the ball throughout the France 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final match between England and South Africa on the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, on the outskirts of Paris, on October 21, 2023. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)Source: AFP

Mbonambi refused to shake Curry’s hand after the match, and when the Englishman was requested if Mbonambi had stated one thing he shouldn’t have, replied “yeah”.

But he didn’t verify the main points and added “it does not need to be talked about”.

The 36-hour citing window from the ultimate whistle meant World Rugby had been unable to touch upon the allegation, with England capable of make a grievance throughout that interval.

South Africa forwards coach Deon Davids was requested in regards to the incident on Sunday and stated: “I’m not aware of that, I’m not aware of any comment, if it was discussed.

“I’m not sure what the comment was or when it was said. I don’t know.”

South Africa’s hooker Bongi Mbonambi (L) and England’s fly-half and captain Owen Farrell (C) converse with New Zealander referee Ben O’Keeffe (R) throughout the France 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final match between England and South Africa on the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, on the outskirts of Paris, on October 21, 2023. (Photo by Antonin THUILLIER / AFP)Source: AFP

Mbonambi is the one specialist hooker in South Africa’s squad and dropping him to a suspension could be a significant blow heading into the World Cup closing towards New Zealand.

Source web site: www.foxsports.com.au

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