Canterbury Crusaders ‘strongly refute’ allegations of homophobic behavior
The players were accused of ‘physically intimidating behaviour ... making homophobic slurs and adopting high pitched voices’ in a post by a local Twitter user.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Canterbury Crusaders on Monday denied allegations on social media that some of the team's players had exhibited homophobic behaviour during an altercation at a fast food restaurant in Cape Town over the weekend.
The players were accused of "physically intimidating behaviour ... making homophobic slurs and adopting high pitched voices" in a post by a local Twitter user.
The reigning Super Rugby champion Crusaders played out a 19-19 draw with local side, the Stormers, at Newlands on Saturday.
"The three players, team management and the South African-based security advisor with them, strongly refute the socialised account of what happened," the Crusaders said in a statement on Monday.
"They are devastated by the allegation and the implication of homophobic behaviour."
Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said the Crusaders were "committed to inclusivity".
"That is what makes these allegations particularly distressing," he said.
Mansbridge said he would meet with the team management and players on their return to Christchurch.
"However, I am confident in the account that we have received from the team and the security advisor who was present," he said.
On Friday, Rugby Australia terminated the playing contract of former Australia fullback Israel Folau, a fundamentalist Christian, for posting on social media that hell awaited "drunks, homosexuals, adulterers" and others.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments