Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi is reportedly facing an internal disciplinary process at the Sharks, with his future at the club now uncertain. The reports are unconfirmed by the club, and no verdict has been announced.
What Is Alleged
According to a Rapport report, the World Cup-winning veteran is being investigated over alleged misconduct and a breach of team protocols during a pre-season team-building session at Bayala Private Safari Lodges. Mbonambi and other players reportedly kept socialising into the early hours against team instructions, and different disciplinary outcomes have reportedly been decided case by case.
Mbonambi is said to be in more trouble because he was allegedly at a team meeting where coach JP Pietersen told players they could socialise on the Tuesday evening before refocusing for the return to full training. He is alleged to have ignored that instruction, and his continued absence from the squad suggests the club believes a senior player should have set an example.
Excluded From the Squad
Despite being reportedly fully fit, Mbonambi has been left out of training and matchday squads while the process continues. Pietersen has given “no comment” when asked about the hooker’s absence. If he is found guilty, the Sharks are reportedly prepared to take a hard line, including possibly terminating his contract.
Nyakane Also Involved
Fellow Springbok Trevor Nyakane is also said to have breached protocols, but could reportedly avoid a harsher sanction because he was not at the meeting where Pietersen set out expectations.
A Long Road Back
The saga adds to existing doubts over Mbonambi’s Springbok prospects, which have looked uncertain in recent seasons. After battling injuries over the past year, the controversy could also hurt his chances of returning for the November Test window. The Sharks are expected to finalise their verdict soon, and it remains to be seen whether he has a way back or faces an exit.
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