Argentina have lodged an official complaint and called for an investigation into England flanker Tom Curry, accusing him of shoving their head coach Felipe Contepomi in a post-match tunnel scuffle. The incident occurred after England's 27-23 victory over the Pumas at Allianz Stadium on Saturday, which extended their winning streak to 11 matches.
The controversy began when Curry made a late tackle on Argentina full-back Juan Cruz Mallia, forcing his withdrawal five minutes from time. The tackle was penalised but not reviewed by the television match official. Argentina later confirmed that Mallia suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee as a result of the hit.
In a remarkable post-match press conference, Contepomi described Curry as a “bully” and alleged that the England star shoved him in the tunnel. “He came off down the tunnel and he gave me a little smack... a push, a hit here on the chest,” Contepomi said. “Maybe it is his nature to bully people.”
Argentina have now urged Six Nations Rugby, the governing body for the autumn Tests, to investigate Curry. There is a 24-hour citing window for action to be taken, and disciplinary proceedings could be initiated over the tunnel altercation.
England head coach Steve Borthwick defended Curry, saying: “I think anybody who has had any contact with Tom Curry his character is impeccable. He's a fantastic team man, a very respectful guy.” Borthwick added that he did not want the post-match events to overshadow what was a hard-fought Test match.
