Springbok faces disciplinary issue, career on hold

Springbok and Sharks hooker Bongi Mbonambi finds his rugby career hanging in the balance as he faces an internal disciplinary ruling at the Sharks.

According to Rapport, the World Cup-winning veteran is currently under investigation for alleged misconduct and a breach of team protocols during a recent team-building session.

The disciplinary cloud has cast immediate doubt over Mbonambi’s future in Durban. Reports indicate that if he is found guilty, the franchise is prepared to take a hardline stance, with management even weighing up the possibility of terminating his contract.

The fallout has already severely impacted the player’s availability. Despite being fully fit, Mbonambi has been excluded from training and matchday squads as the process unfolds.

Sharks coach JP Pietersen has repeatedly sidestepped media inquiries regarding the hooker’s ongoing absence, offering “no comment” as speculation mounts.

Springbok and Sharks stalwart facing uncertain future

The issue reportedly stems from an alleged breach of team rules during a pre-season team building exercise at Bayala Private Safari Lodges.

Mbonambi and other players were said to have continued socialising into the early hours, going against team instructions, and various disciplinary rulings have been made in each case.

However, it’s Mbonambi who has especially found himself in hot water as he was apparently present at a team meeting where Pietersen told players that they could socialise on Tuesday evening, but then had to focus ahead of the return to full training.

However, he is said to have disobeyed this instruction, while the fact he has not returned to the squad mix indicates there is a feeling that the onus was on him as a senior player to lead by example.

Another senior Springbok, Trevor Nyakane, was also said to have been involved in breaching protocols, but could reportedly escape more serious punishment because he was not present at the meeting when Pietersen set down the expectations.

Long way back

This internal crisis not only threatens Mbonambi’s domestic tenure, but also casts a shadow over his international prospects that have already appeared to be in jeopardy in recent seasons.

Having battled various injuries over the past year, the latest developments may also jeopardise his chances of forcing his way back into the Springbok setup ahead of the upcoming November Test window.

As the Sharks prepare to finalise their verdict following the disciplinary processes, it now remains to be seen if there is way back into the selection mix for Mbionambi, or whether he faces an exit from the coastal side.