All Blacks coach Steve Hansen believes controversial Wallabies star Israel Folau has "let himself down" in the wake of airing his beliefs on social media.
Folau sparked outrage after posting to his Instagram account last Wednesday night that "hell awaits drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolators" —adding they should "repent".
As a result, Folau has been left fighting for his career with Rugby Australia set to use all their power to terminate his four-year contract.
Speaking to the media at the All Blacks foundation day in Wellington today, Hansen said he believed Folau had incorrectly dealt with the situation.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen talks to media at Poneke Rugby Club. Photo / Getty
"I think we all know what he's said isn't right ... it's been dealt with pretty strongly by his employers," Hansen said. "He's got the right to have an opinion but I think he's probably let himself down with how he's gone about that.
"He firmly believes it so he's just missing one piece of the jigsaw puzzle I think."
Hansen agreed that Folau would be a loss to the Wallabies if Rugby Australia were to terminate his contract.
But opening up for the first time since making the post, Folau said what becomes of his rugby career was now purely God's will.
"It's obviously a decision that's in the process right now but I believe in a God that's in control of all things," Folau told the Sydney Morning Herald.
"Whatever His will is, whether that's to continue playing or not, I'm more than happy to do what He wants me to do.
"First and foremost, I live for God now. Whatever He wants me to do, I believe His plans for me are better than whatever I can think. If that's not to continue on playing, so be it.
"In saying that, obviously I love playing footy and if it goes down that path I'll definitely miss it. But my faith in Jesus Christ is what comes first."
Israel Folau's contract will likely be terminated. Photo / Getty
Rugby Australia had earlier released a telling joint statement with the NSW Waratahs.
"Our joint position regarding Israel Folau is unchanged," it said. "Following today's meeting, the two organisations will update their respective boards on the matter to consider next steps." On Friday evening, the NSW Rugby Union doubled down with its own statement, saying Folau had been stood down.
"NSW Rugby Union has stood down Israel Folau from all player duties with the NSW Waratahs until further notice."
RA and NSW Rugby had on Thursday night said Castle had been unable to "directly contact" Folau to advise him of her intention to terminate his $4 million four- year contract.
