World Rugby reviewing alleged use of 'discriminatory language' by Bongi Mbonambi towards England’s Tom Curry

World Rugby are reviewing the alleged use of "discriminatory language" by Bongi Mbonambi towards England’s Tom Curry in the World Cup semi-final.

It is claimed the hooker made a remark during the Springboks’ 16-15 World Cup semi-final win in Paris on Saturday. Asked after the game whether there had been an incident, Curry confirmed there had been but did not go into any further detail.

Although there is no publicly released footage of the alleged comment being made, a recording has emerged from referee Ben O’Keeffe’s microphone in which the England and Sale flanker can be heard reporting what he believes he heard.

“Sir, if their hooker calls me a white c***, what do I do?” says Curry, before O’Keeffe replies with “Nothing, please. I’ll be on it.”

In a statement, World Rugby said it takes "allegations of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously.

"We can confirm that we are formally reviewing the allegation made by England's Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language. World Rugby will not be making further comment until the conclusion of the process".

South Africa Rugby released a statement on Sunday confirming it would be looking into the situation itself.

“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”.

England had until 10am BST to lodge a complaint to the citing officer, but World Rugby also had the option to investigate the incident itself and whether or not Mbonambi has brought the game into disrepute.

The hooker took over as captain during the game, after Siya Kolisi was replaced in the second half. England led for most of the game, before Handre Pollard kicked a late penalty to send the Springboks into a final with New Zealand on Saturday.

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