Double Bok World Cup winner’s future hangs in balance as ruling looms

South Africa hooker Bongi Mbonambi is reportedly awaiting the outcome of a lengthy disciplinary hearing at the Sharks over alleged misconduct during a pre-season team-building camp in August.

According to South African outlet Rapport, the 35-year-old was involved in an incident at Bayala Private Safari Lodges before the Sharks’ August 11 fixture against the All Blacks. Head coach JP Pietersen had reportedly allowed players to socialise on a Tuesday evening before returning to full training, but Mbonambi, Trevor Nyakane and Eduan Swart allegedly continued into Wednesday morning.

Fez Mbatha is also said to have missed a team activity the following morning after a late night. Mbatha and Swart have subsequently received written warnings, with their cases reportedly treated as first offences. Nyakane is understood to be in a different position because he was not present when Pietersen set out the team rules.

Mbonambi’s case has taken longer to resolve, with a ruling from the presiding officer expected within the next two weeks. Reports in South Africa have suggested the outcome could have significant implications for his future at the Durban franchise. The 82-cap Bok’s contract is not due to expire until 2028, but it could potentially be terminated early.

The double World Cup winner has not featured for the Sharks in the opening rounds of the URC and is not currently training with the squad, despite reports that he is fit enough to play.

Asked about Mbonambi’s absence last week, Pietersen said: “Bongi is obviously not available. There is no comment on Bongi.”

The situation also leaves uncertainty over the veteran hooker’s international prospects. Mbonambi has not played for the Springboks since facing Wales in Cardiff last November and has since dealt with knee and back injuries which, combined with his current situation, have kept him out of action since January.

South Africa are due to face Italy, Ireland and France in November, meaning the timing of the ruling could have consequences for his hopes of returning to the Test set-up before the end of the year. Worse still, it could seriously hamper, or even end, any hopes he has of forcing his way back into Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok plans and making a tilt at a third World Cup title next year.