Springbok focus on final despite Mbonambi controversy

PRESLES COURCELLES, France : South Africa have no problem focusing on Saturday's Rugby World Cup final despite the controversy hanging over hooker Bongi Mbonambi and World Rugby's investigation into alleged discriminatory behaviour, assistant coach Felix Jones said.

World Rugby are formally reviewing the allegation that Mbonambi directed a racial slur at England's Tom Curry in Saturday's semi-final, where South Africa secured a 16-15 win to set up a final against New Zealand this weekend.

But Jones said, despite no resolution of the investigation, the Springboks were knuckling down to work as they look to defend their title.

"Everyone, as you can expect for a World Cup final, is hugely excited and there is a high level of focus. Everyone wants to get their detail down early in the week and then concentrate on delivering the performance," he told a press conference on Wednesday.

At the same time, South Africa Rugby officials said the investigation into Mbonambi's alleged behaviour was on-going and they were unable to provide any answers on the next step of the process.

World Rugby said separately an investigation into the allegations was being conducted by its disciplinary structures but no time line on the process was known.

Audio and video footage posted on social media show Curry complaining to referee Ben O'Keeffe, although no action was taken during the match and the alleged slur is not heard.

Curry confirmed an incident when questioned by reporters afterwards but refused to say what had been said, and since then both England and South Africa's camp have clamped down on questions on the issue.

FATIGUE

If found guilty, Mbonambi could be suspended for Saturday's clash at Stade de France, which would be a huge blow to South