AUSTRALIA

are in a state of chaos, four months before the World Cup. Israel Folau’s code of conduct hearing will continue tomorrow, with his union determined to sack him for declaring that ‘hell awaits’ gay people. It has emerged that Folau (right) turned down an offer of AUS$1million (£533,000) to walk away from his Rugby Australia contract. The Wallabies are set to be without one of their marquee match-winners in Japan, and there are signs of tension and division within their squad, as Polynesian players are feeling alienated and persecuted due to their religious beliefs. Comments are being twisted and offence is being taken at every turn. The game Down Under is on a knife-edge. Michael Cheika, the Wallabies’ head coach, faces a huge task to instil unity and harmony before Australia face Wales in the World Cup pool stage — and potentially England in the quarter-finals.