SA Rugby has instituted an internal process to address the matter involving Eben Etzebeth following a decision by the SAHRC to launch legal proceedings against the Bok lock.

The South African Human Rights Commission confirmed on Thursday that legal proceedings will be pursued in the Equality Court on Friday in relation to assault allegations involving the Springbok lock.

In addition, the commission will also hold a mass public meeting in Langebaan on Thursday to address the community’s unhappiness over how the matter was handled by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and SAPS.

Etzebeth first strongly refuted the claims, while SA Rugby has repeatedly stated that the lock would remain with the Springboks unless the police require reconsideration.

An SA Rugby spokesman stated on Friday: ‘SA Rugby reaffirms its commitment as a good corporate citizen to abide by any requirements placed on it or its employees by South African authorities.

‘We have fulfilled all requests to date and will continue to do so as and when advised. Following our discussions with the South African Human Rights Commission we have instituted an internal process to address the matter, the details of which remain an employment matter between SA Rugby and the player.’