England have until Monday to report alleged racial slur aimed at Tom Curry

England have until Monday morning to lodge a complaint after Tom Curry alleged he was the victim of a racist slur in Saturday's 16-15 World Cup semi-final defeat by South Africa.

Curry drew the incident to the attention of referee Ben O'Keeffe around the half-hour mark of the match at the Stade de France.

Although the alleged slur is not audible on the ref link, Curry’s subsequent conversation with O’Keeffe is.

The dramatic clash in Paris was won by Handre Pollard’s penalty after 78 minutes.

South Africa on Sunday responded by confirming they are looking into the incident.

"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," an SA Rugby statement read.

World Rugby confirmed there is a 36-hour window from when the game ends for England to lodge a complaint to the citing officer, giving them until 10am on Monday to act.

The sport’s global governing body can also choose to pursue the matter with any case likely to be brought under the 'bringing the game into disrepute’ banner.

Also, if the citing officer finds any evidence of the alleged racist remark he can trigger disciplinary proceedings. An offence such as this likely to contravene law 9.12 – a player must not verbally abuse anyone.