LISTEN: Boks’ Mbonambi accused of racially abusing England’s Curry

Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi has been accused of using a racial slur against England flank Tom Curry during the team’s Rugby World Cup semi-final in Paris on Saturday night.

The Boks won the game 16-15 thanks to a late rally that saw them over-turn a 15-6 deficit to progress to the final where they will face their old foes, the All Blacks, in this Saturday’s final.

According to a report in England’s Daily Telegraph, Curry apparently asked referee, New Zealand’s Ben O’Keeffe, what he should do about being called a “white c***” at one stage during the match at the Stade de France.

On audio in the Daily Telegraph‘s possession Curry is heard asking: “Sir, Sir, if their hooker calls me a white c*** what do I do?”

O’Keeffe replies: “Nothing please.” He then adds, “I will be on it” although it is not known if this in response to Curry’s question.

Listen to the audio here:

According to the publication, there is no audible evidence of Mbonambi’s alleged abuse.

The Daily Telegraph also quotes Boks assistant coach Deon Davids, who was asked about the alleged matter at a press opportunity on Sunday.

“I’m not aware of that, I’m not aware of any comment, if it was discussed,” Davids said, according to the publication. “I’m not sure what the comment was or when it was said. I don’t know.”

SA Rugby have apparently responded by saying they are aware of the accusation levelled against Mbonambi.

“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.”

Mbonambi is the Boks’ only specialist hooker in the group, with Deon Fourie and Marco van Staden the back-ups in the absence of the injured and unavailable Malcolm Marx. The citing period for abuse, or foul play, is open for 48 hours after a match.