A new scandal has emerged after the weekend’s tense Rugby World Cup semi-final, in which South Africa snatched a close win from England.
The English roses looked poised for a win, that is, until the Springboks replacement fly half Handre Pollard kicked the last penalty, mere minutes before the final whistle.
But Bok’s smash-and-grab win has been marred by allegations of racism from English flanker, Tom Curry.
Curry accused Springboks hooker Bongi Mbonambi of verbal abuse during the game.
Curry was seen complaining to referee Ben O’ Keeffe in the second quarter of the match at Stade de France. While the alleged slur is not audible, Curry told the O-Keeffe, “Sir, if their hooker calls me a white c*** what do I do?”
O’Keeffe replied: “Nothing, please. I’ll be on it.”
“Die Wit kant” – The White side
SA Rugby said it takes the allegation seriously and will investigate. However fans have rushed to Mbonambi’s saying saying Curry may have been lost in translation.
“Die Wit kant” in Afrikaans translates to “The White side.” Fans suggested Mbonambi was informing his teammates of the balls position.
World Rugby has confirmed there is a 36-hour window from when the game ends for England to lodge a complaint to the citing officer. Its unclear if Curry has laid a formal complaint, but if so, it see Mbonambi off the squad for the final against the All Blacks on Saturday.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s underwhelming performance in Saturday’s game has left rugby fans nerve-wracked ahead of the finals against New Zealand.
