Gay rugby club add voice to Izzy debate

RUGBY Australia (RA) has been criticised for its handling of the Israel Folau controversy by gay world club rugby champions the Melbourne Chargers.

The issue continues to make waves after RA opted not to sanction their superstar player for his comment on social media that gay people would go to hell unless they repent their “sins”.

Chargers president Xavier Goldie has sent an open invitation for devout Christian Folau to attend one of their training sessions in the hope he could understand why his comments were so hurtful to the gay community.

“In the past, Rugby Australia has been a leader on standing up for diversity and inclusion in the sport, including gay people,” Goldie said.

“We are disappointed they didn’t take action in response to Folau’s harmful comments.

“Penalising him wasn’t their only option, they also could have asked him to meet with gay rugby players to hear why his comments are so incredibly harmful.” The Chargers won the Bingham Cup, the biggest rugby tournament in the world in terms of participation, in 2016.

But Folau has received another high-profile supporter in his Wallabies teammate Allan Alaalatoa.

The Brumbies prop, who was promoted to Australia vice-captain last year, says Folau’s dedication to his religion is something he can aspire to.