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20 May, 2019 13:36

No confidence: Rugby star Israel Folau hits out at Rugby Australia following sacking

No confidence: Rugby star Israel Folau hits out at Rugby Australia following sacking

Disgraced former Wallabies rugby union star Israel Folau has stated that his decision not to appeal his sacking by Rugby Australia is "in no way an acceptance of the judicial panel's findings."

The rugby star, who was sacked following social media posts declaring that sinners, including homosexuals, would go to hell if they did not repent.

The comments were widely criticised and led to Rugby Australia finding the player guilty of a 'high-level' breach of their conduct policies and terminated his $4 million contract.

READ MORE: Israel Folau’s $4m contract terminated over ‘hell awaits gay people’ comments

The window for Folau to officially appeal the decision has now passed, but in a statement, the player said that allowing the appeal deadline to pass was not an acceptance of the body's decision.

"The last few weeks and, in particular, the last 72 hours have given me considerable opportunity to reflect and think about my future," Folau said.

"I will not be exercising my right to appeal Rugby Australia's decision to terminate my employment contract.

RT

"My decision not to commence Rugby Australia's appeal process is in no way an acceptance of the judicial panel's findings.

"I simply do not have confidence in Rugby Australia's ability to treat me fairly or lawfully throughout this process.

"The messages of support from fans, players, former rugby administrators and the public have been humbling."

Despite previously hinting that his playing days may now be over, Folau has now suggested he wants to continue playing, and is currently investigating his options.

One option, according to Australian newspaper The Daily Telegraph, could be to take his case to the Supreme Court.

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