Siya Kolisi has reached out to offer Tom Curry his support amidst the controversy surrounding Bongi Mbonambi in the lead-up to the final weekend of Rugby World Cup matches.
In the aftermath of Curry’s allegations of racial abuse by Mbonambi during their semi-final clash last weekend, the Sale Sharks flanker has faced an onslaught of online harassment from malicious individuals.
He has been the target of death threats, with his 25-year-old self and his family becoming subjects of these hateful messages as well.
“If it’s a player, coach or referee, I don’t support that and I feel for him,” said Kolisi in the team announcement press conference.
“I have spoken to him (Curry), I sent him a message when I saw that was going on because he’s somebody that I respect and I’ve played against for quite a while.
“I’ve been through it too. We can take it as players when it comes to us directly but when it comes to your family, it’s totally different.
“That’s exactly what he said to me, it’s really hard when it comes to your family. That’s the one part of the game we really don’t enjoy – we don’t mind being criticised for how we play on the field but when it becomes personal…
“We’ve experienced it too. Cobus [Reinach] and his family received death threats earlier this tournament. As a rugby family, as much as we compete, we do support each other when things like this happen.”
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”