South African hooker Bongi Mbonambi has been given the green light to start in the highly anticipated Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand in a dramatic turn of events.
This decision follows an inquiry into allegations of racial abuse made by England flanker Tom Curry, which had cast a shadow of uncertainty over Mbonambi’s participation.
During last Saturday’s intense semi-final, which South Africa narrowly won 16-15, Curry reported that he was subjected to racial slurs by Mbonambi. The subsequent investigation, conducted by World Rugby, recognized Curry’s sincerity in raising these allegations.
However, in a surprising twist, World Rugby cited “insufficient evidence” to charge Mbonambi with any wrongdoing. The Rugby Football Union (RFU) expressed its deep disappointment with this ruling, believing that the evidence should have been presented before an independent disciplinary panel.
World Rugby’s investigation also took into account a similar allegation made by Curry concerning an incident during England’s match against South Africa last November. Despite the gravity of the accusations and the impact on Curry, the matter has been closed unless new evidence comes to light.
The RFU, in full support of Curry, condemned the abuse he and his family have endured on social media following the incident. The RFU emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment where any unacceptable behaviour in rugby can be reported.
Head coach Jacques Nienaber has revealed the most experienced South African team ever to face the All Blacks in the upcoming final in Paris. In a bid to secure a historic fourth World Cup victory, Nienaber has made two key changes to the XV that triumphed over England in the semi-final.
Faf de Klerk and Handre Pollard, who displayed an exceptional performance in the previous match, will replace Cobus Reinach and Manie Libbok. Pollard, in particular, made a significant impact when he came on as a substitute in the semi-final, sealing the win with a crucial late penalty kick.
Reinach and Libbok have been omitted from the matchday squad entirely, as Nienaber has chosen a 7-1 split of forwards and backs on the bench.
The South African side is eager to seize this momentous opportunity and make rugby history by clinching victory against New Zealand.
The anticipation for this colossal clash is reaching fever pitch as rugby enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the showdown between these two formidable teams.
Line-up
South Africa
Willemse; Arendse, Kriel, De Allende, Kolbe; Pollard, De Klerk; Kitshoff, Mbonambi, Malherbe, Etzebeth, Mostert, Kolisi (capt), Du Toit, Vermeulen.
Replacements
Fourie, Nche, Nyakane, Kleyn, Snyman, Smith, Wiese, Le Roux.
Source: BBC Sports
