Bongi Mbonambi: 5 things to know about the Springbok hooker

Mbongeni Theo Mbonambi, better known as Bongi Mbonambi, is making headlines following an alleged racial slur directed at England loose forward Tom Curry.

ALSO READ | UK Prime Minister weighs in on racism allegation against Bongi Mbonambi

Here’s what we know about the Springboks hooker. 

FIVE INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BONGI MBONAMBI 

The Springboks and All Blacks will face off in a highly-anticipated Rugby World Cup 2023 final in Paris on Saturday, 28 October. 

MUST READ | Bongi Mbonambi ‘perfect’ in training amid English witch hunt

At the time of publishing, it’s not clear if Mbonambi will be part of the line-up.

Here’s what we know about him:

1. Mbongeni Mbonambi was born on 7 January 1991 in Bethlehem, Free State. 

2. He made his Test debut for the Springboks in June 2016 and has since kept the pace in the team. He led the Springboks when captain Siya Kolisi was injured and does the same whenever Kolisi is substituted. 

3. Mbonambi started his professional career with the Blue Bulls before moving to the Stormers in 2015. In June 2021, he joined the Hollywoodbets Sharks, where he plays alongside several fellow Springboks, including Lukhanyo Am, Eben Etzebeth and Ox Nche.

4. The 32-year-old is married to Anastacia, and the couple have a daughter, Esa Khanyisile, who was born in May 2019.

5. According to World Rugby, in February 2018, he suffered a career-threatening illness when his appendix burst, and he spent three days in intensive care. Four months after the ordeal, he was starting at hooker for the Springboks against England.

ALSO READ: Eben Etzebeth: Five things to know about the Springboks lock

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY NOKWANDA NCWANE