Eben Etzebeth is likely to fly to Japan with Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus’ 31-man World Cup squad at the weekend with a cloud still hanging over his head.
When asked for comment on whether Etzebeth has been cleared of alleged assault, which took place outside a popular Langebaan pub and grill at the weekend, police spokesperson, Captain FC van Wyk, told the Cape Times: “This office can confirm that a case of assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm was registered for investigation at Langebaan SAPS.
“The mentioned person is not yet exonerated by the police as the case is still under investigation.”
The SA Rugby Union said on Monday Etzebeth, 27, would remain a member of the squad unless authorities ask the organisation to reconsider its decision.
Various versions of the event have been circulating in videos and voice notes on social media.
Charges have been laid by two men who alleged that the 2.04m Etzebeth, along with his brother and friends, hurled racial slurs and assaulted their group during an altercation outside Die Water Gat at the Langebaan Yacht Club .
Van Wyk has also indicated that the "circulated voice note is part of the investigation, but the person on the voice note is still unknown".