'Deeply saddened': Israel Folau weighs up his options after sacking
The 73-Test fullback responded two-and-a-half hours later with a statement saying his religious beliefs "should not prevent my ability to work or play for my club and country".
"I would like to thank my wife Maria for her love and encouragement to stay true to our beliefs. We have been humbled by the support we have received from family, friends, players, fans and the wider community. Folau has the right to appeal the decision, characterised as "landmark" by Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle, and has 72 hours to do so.
"This has been an extremely challenging period for rugby and this issue has created an unwanted distraction in an important year for the sport and for the Wallabies team. As it stands, the decision is set to bring to an end Folau's nine-year partnership with the Waratahs and Wallabies, a union that was unexpected at the time but that went on to be a huge success. He was a key part of the Waratahs' 2014 Super Rugby title win and only this season became the all-time top try scorer in Super Rugby history.
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