England have been instructed to provide CCTV footage of an alleged tunnel altercation between Tom Curry and Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi, following a formal complaint from the Argentine Rugby Union. Six Nations Rugby, which organises the autumn internationals, has requested the footage and a formal statement from England before deciding whether to launch disciplinary proceedings.
The incident occurred after England's 27-23 victory on Sunday, with Contepomi accusing Curry of shoving him in the tunnel and telling him to "fuck off." The Argentina coach described Curry as a "bully" and claimed the flanker's tackle on Juan Cruz Mallía in the 75th minute had "broken" the player's knee. Argentina later confirmed Mallía suffered a traumatic torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee as a result of the tackle.
Contepomi stated: "It is part of [Curry's] nature to bully people. But he came off in the tunnel and he gave me a little smack... a push, a hit here on the chest." He added: "Maybe that is the way he is... If we want bullies in this game, good on them." The Six Nations will review the footage and England's statement before determining if further action is needed.
England head coach Steve Borthwick defended Curry, saying: "His character is impeccable. He's a fantastic team man, a very respectful guy." Borthwick noted he was unaware of the tunnel incident but acknowledged that post-match emotions often run high. The RFU is expected to provide any relevant video captured of the incident.
