Rassie Erasmus makes subtle 'X' account change in light of Mbonambi probe

South Africa director of rugby and Twitter impresario Rassie Erasmus has made a not particularly subtle change to his profile in light of news that Bongi Mbonambi won’t face charges over an alleged racial slur.

England flanker Tom Curry claimed to referee Ben O’Keeffe in the second quarter of England’s World Cup semi-final defeat by South Africa on Saturday that he had been called a “white c***” by hooker Mbonambi.

This morning World Rugby confirmed that the matter would not be pursued due to a lack of evidence.

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“World Rugby has undertaken a review of allegations made by England’s Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language by South Africa’s Mbongeni Mbonambi during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final on Saturday along with a further allegation brought forward in recent days about a previous match in the Autumn Nations Series 2022,” said World Rugby in a statment. “Any allegation of discrimination is taken extremely seriously by World Rugby, warranting a thorough investigation. Having considered all the available evidence, including match footage, audio and evidence from both teams, the governing body has determined that there is insufficient evidence at this time to proceed with charges. Therefore, the matter is deemed closed unless additional evidence comes to light.”

World Rugby said that they accept Tom Curry made the claims in good faith.

Now Rassie Erasmus – who is known to be a pretty hot account on Twitter or X as it is now known – decided to make his Twitter head picture an image of Mbonambi.

Subtle Rassie, subtle! On a side note, Erasmus is currently not following any account on Twitter, although he had been in the habit of just following his side’s next opponents in the lead-up to match-day. Erasmus is yet to follow the All Blacks account, however, which may or may not be more mind games.

Earlier SA Rugby released a statement in which they welcomed the results of World Rugby’s investigation into the incident.

“Bongi Mbonambi is an experienced, respected and decorated Test player and, needless to say, denied the allegations from the outset. SA Rugby has absolute faith in the honesty and integrity of Bongi,” the union said. “The team’s focus remains, as it has throughout the week, on Saturday’s match against New Zealand. SA Rugby will make no further comment on the matter.”

additional reporting PA