Tendai Mtawarira’s much-talked about autobiography has been recalled by the publishers.

The book, which has already been printed, was set to be launched on 1 July, but Pan Macmillan publishers released a statement on Thursday indicating that the book was to be delayed.

‘World-renowned rugby player Tendai Mtawarira, co-author Andy Capostagno and publishers Pan Macmillan have decided to delay the launch of Mtawarira’s highly anticipated book.

‘The memoir, titled Beast, was set to be released on July 1, but will now be launched later in the year. A new date for the book’s release will be communicated as soon as it has been finalised.’

The new turn of events comes after the backlash related to controversial comments regarding former Springbok coach Peter de Villiers.

Mtawarira said in the latest statement: ‘With the reaction of some commentators to a single paragraph from the book as a possible indicator of the level of media attention and interest, we felt it necessary to delay the release of the book, so that I can focus solely on my rugby in preparation for possible inclusion in the World Cup squad.’

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