Israel Folau could be in hot water again with his employer, Rugby Australia, after more controversial comments about homosexuals and the gender debate.
Yesterday Tasmania became the first Australian jurisdiction to make gender an option on birth certificates.
After the announcement, the Wallabies star took to Twitter to tell people to "turn away" from their evil ways after the announcement.
"The devil has blinded so many people in this world, REPENT and turn away from your evil ways. Turn to Jesus Christ who will set you free," Folau posted.
The devil has blinded so many people in this world, REPENT and turn away from your evil ways. Turn to Jesus Christ who will set you free. pic.twitter.com/BWSWTMye98
Sydney Morning Herald columnist Peter FitzSimons wrote that Folau's latest post should see Rugby Australia cut their ties with the 73-test Wallaby.
"Israel Folau has to go, and will go," the former Australian test player wrote.
"Quick. Clean. Gone. At least until such times as he repents."
"Rugby Australia simply has no choice. They cannot go through one more time the agony of last year when Folau's social media comments trumpeting that gays would go to hell, saw rugby lose sponsors, fans and support," FitzSimons said in the Sydney Morning Herald.
According to rugby.com.au, there was a reported clause in Folau's contract negotiations last year that was specific to his use of social media.
The tweet has been widely shared and commented on, with most people responding having a negative view of his comments.
Israel Folau. Photo / Photosport
"Why would Jesus have wanted more detail in birth records? How is that possibly connected to his faith, or the religion of his followers?" one user asked.
"Folau needs a social media team to do all his posts for him, you're extremely religious we get that but might be best to stay out of subjects that could easily offend in today's world," said another.
Retired England prop Joe Marler simply responded with an image of two men kissing.
"There's no doubt we've had conversations with Izzy about continuing to present his views in a respectful way. He is walking the line, we'll continue the dialogue with him," Castle told Fox Sports' Kick & Chase program in May, 2018.
"On one hand you're dealing with a human rights issue and on the other hand you're dealing with freedom of speech and someone's right to express their views, whether it be religious or otherwise. I think the test continues to be whether that is done in a respectful way. That's the measure we'll continue to apply."
Folau, who is married to Silver Ferns shooter Maria Folau (nee Tutaia), made the comment in reply to a question on an image he posted on Instagram which showed "God's plan".
"@izzyfolau what was gods plan for gay people??" user Mike Sephton-Poultney asked. "HELL", Folau responded. "Unless they repent of their sins and turn to God."
