England’s Tom Curry accuses South Africa star of calling him ‘white c***’ during Rugby World Cup semi-final defeat
England star Tom Curry accused South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi of calling him a 'white c***' during their Rugby World Cup semi-final.
England suffered a heartbreaking 16-15 defeat to the reigning champions, four years on from their final defeat to the same opponents.
It has been reported that flanker Curry was picked up by the referee Ben O’Keeffe's microphone while Owen Farrell was lining-up a penalty in the 23rd minute.
Curry said: “Sir, if their hooker calls me a white c***, what do I do?”
The referee replied: "Nothing, please." After a short pause he added: "I'll be on it."
Mbonambi appeared to refuse to shake Curry's hand after the match, with the hooker finishing as Springboks captain.
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When asked about the alleged incident, South Africa forward coach Deon Davids said: “I’m not aware of that. I’m not aware of any comment. If it was discussed, I’m not sure what the comment was or when it was said. I don’t know.”
Curry confirmed that Mbonambi had said something to him, but did not elaborate on what was said.
"It does not need to be talked about," he said.
England now have the option to refer the incident to the match citing commissioner.
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Should they do so, Mbonambi could face a ban and that would throw South Africa's Rugby World Cup final plans into chaos.
They face New Zealand in next Saturday's final.