Twist in Etzebeth case

Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth met with the Human Rights Commission (HRC) on Thursday in relation to allegations of his involvement in an unsavoury incident in Langebaan last weekend.

On Monday, Etzebeth was named in the Boks’ 31-man World Cup squad, and subsequently stated that he had been assured by police that he will not be implicated.

This followed a social media storm, which erupted on Sunday to suggest that Etzebeth had been involved in an ‘assault’ that allegedly had racial connotations.

Etzebeth first strongly refuted the claims, while SA Rugby stated on Monday that the lock would remain with the Springboks unless the police require reconsideration.

On Friday morning, SA Rugby provided a further update: ‘The purpose of the meeting was to advise the player of the role the HRC takes in relation to a complaint received, as well as the subsequent media reports relating to it, and to establish a commitment of cooperation between the two parties.

‘Both parties expressed their satisfaction with the envisaged process going forward and concluded by describing the meeting as constructive. The player denied any wrongdoing to the HRC and has pledged his full cooperation in the matter.’

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