Rugby Australia will grill Israel Folau over his use of social media after the Wallabies superstar’s latest homophobic comment, which is in stark contrast to the position of its major sponsor.
Rugby Australia announced yesterday that chief executive Raelene Castle and Waratahs boss Andrew Hore would meet with Folau following a statement he made on Instagram.
Australia’s highest‑profile player, who is a devout Christian, sparked social media outrage when he said gay people were headed to “HELL ... Unless they repent of their sins and turn to God” in response to a question on Instagram.
The governing body said “Folau’s personal beliefs do not reflect the views of Rugby Australia” as a flurry of Twitter users questioned whether Qantas – a vocal supporter of same‑sex marriage - should align itself with the Wallabies and, by association, Folau.
The 62‑test star is off contract at the end of this year, with Wallabies coach Michael Cheika desperate to secure his attacking trump for next year's World Cup in Japan.
Meanwhile, in Super Rugby, the Waratahs meet the Sunwolves at 5.15pm tomorrow, the Blues will take on the Chiefs at 7.35pm tomorrow while the Hurricanes meet the Sharks at 7.35 tonight.
Source: stuff.co.nz
