South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi has been given permission to play in the Rugby World Cup final after World Rugby found insufficient evidence to support the claim that he used discriminatory language towards England flanker Tom Curry. The investigation was launched after Curry made the allegation during the semi-final match, which South Africa won. World Rugby was also asked to review a similar incident between the two teams in a previous match. However, after considering all available evidence, including match footage and audio, World Rugby concluded that there was not enough evidence to proceed with charges. They stated that the matter is closed unless additional evidence emerges. World Rugby acknowledged that Curry made the allegation in good faith and that there is no suggestion of deliberate falsehood or malice. South African Rugby expressed satisfaction with Mbonambi’s version of events and affirmed their faith in his honesty and integrity.
The decision not to hold a formal hearing regarding the allegations against Mbonambi has left England’s Rugby Football Union deeply disappointed. They believe that the opportunity to hear Curry’s account and independently assess the evidence has been denied. The RFU claims that Curry was subjected to the same abuse in a previous match, but there is no evidence to support this. As Curry prepares for the Bronze Final against Argentina, England coach Steve Borthwick expressed disappointment with World Rugby’s decision and emphasized that Curry has done nothing wrong. The team shares the bitter disappointment and frustration that Curry’s voice has not been heard.
In response to the situation, England has highlighted the online abuse directed at Curry. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi expressed support for Curry and revealed that he had reached out to him. Kolisi acknowledged the impact that such abuse can have on a player and their family and expressed hope that it would stop.
Overall, the investigation into the allegations against Bongi Mbonambi has concluded with insufficient evidence to support the claims. World Rugby has deemed the matter closed unless new evidence emerges. The decision not to hold a formal hearing has disappointed the RFU, but South African Rugby stands by Mbonambi’s integrity. The focus now shifts to supporting Curry and addressing the online abuse he has faced.
The post Springbok hooker Mbonambi cleared to play in World Cup final appeared first on Rush Hour Daily News | Breaking News, U.S & World News, Politics & Opinions - News around the Worlds.
