30 October 2023 , 10:22
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The South African Government have seemingly goaded England flanker Tom Curry by stating the William Webb Ellis trophy "is in South Africa’s kant."
In an absorbing Rugby World Cup final in Paris, the Springboks made history by beating New Zealand 12-11 to be crowned champions for an unprecedented fourth time. Four penalties from Handre Pollard proved pivotal in a clash which also saw All Blacks skipper Sam Cane red carded in the first half.
But for Rassie Erasmus and co, the build-up to the final had been partly overshadowed by the saga that centred around Curry and South African hooker Bongi Mbonambi. During an intense semi-final clash, which the Springboks also came through by a solitary point after prevailing 16-15, Curry alleged Mbonambi had used a racial slur towards him.
The Sale Sharks No.7 approached referee Ben O'Keeffe in the first half and was heard asking: "Sir, sir, if their hooker calls me a white c***, what do I do?" The official replied: "Nothing, please."
World Rugby opened an investigation into the incident, but concluded there was insufficient evidence to pursue further action. And compatriots publicly leapt to the defence of Mbonambi, outlining the 32-year-old had said "wit kant", which translates to "white side" in Afrikaans.
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And following Saturday's win, the South African Government seemingly waded in to the controversy , thanking fans while making a pointed dig at Curry: "'Government also thanks all South Africans for rallying behind the team, and supporting them through the nail-biting games," read a statement. "The Webb Ellis is in South Africa’s kant!!"
Tom Curry speaks to referee Ben O’Keeffe during the Rugby World Cup semi final (PA)HAVE YOUR SAY! Has Tom Curry been badly treated by World Rugby? Comment below.
The final itself proved bittersweet for Mbonambi, who was also part of the squad that prevailed in Japan in 2019. Despite being cleared to start, he limped off just four minutes in after being cleared out at a ruck by New Zealand's Shannon Frizzell.
England coach Steve Borthwick has subsequently slammed authorities for their treatment of Curry, who has since claimed Mbonambi used a similar slur towards him a previous game between the two nations. Borthwick argued that the investigation was closed without the 25-year-old having the opportunity to present his case.
"Tom Curry has done nothing wrong," he said. "World Rugby made a decision not to allow the opportunity for the victim's voice to be heard."