The build-up to England’s third-place match against Argentina at the Rugby World Cup has been overshadowed by allegations of racism after Tom Curry claimed that he was subjected to a racist remark by South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi. The latter has since been cleared by World Rugby after an investigation determined that there was not enough evidence to take action.
Mbonambi has already been named in South Africa’s team for the Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand, which will take place at the Stade de France on Saturday evening. England head coach Steve Borthwick responded to the ruling by accusing World Rugby of denying Curry a voice, with the 25-year-old having suffered a barrage of online abuse in the aftermath of the alleged incident.
“Tom Curry has done nothing wrong,” said Borthwick. “World Rugby made a decision not to allow the opportunity for the victim’s voice to be heard. Everyone associated with this team shares that bitter disappointment at World Rugby’s decision.”
Follow Express Sport‘s live updates below.
Buy all of your Rugby World Cup 2023 programmes here.
