Rugby: Wallabies star Israel Folau 'enjoyed' debate on same sex marriage stance

Wallabies utility Israel Folau. Photo / Getty

Wallabies utility Israel Folau has opened up about the furore his controversial views on gay marriage caused earlier this year saying he 'enjoyed' the debate.

Folau sparked public outrage with his comments on social media in April, claiming, as part of his Christian beliefs, God's plan for gay people is hell.

Folau had to front Rugby Australia over his comments and CEO Raelene Castle chose not to sanction him saying: "In his own words, Israel said that he did not intend to upset people intentionally or bring hurt to the game. We accept Israel's position."

"It's a bit of a rollercoaster year for me, more so off the field with what's been happening," Folau said ahead of Saturday's third Bledisloe Cup test in Yokohama.

"But, to be quite honest, it might sound a bit crazy, but I kind of really enjoyed what was happening off the field, not that it happened on purpose.

"But my identity is based around my faith in God and I truly believe that from deep down inside what was happening off the field, even though it was challenging and it was hard, it was actually moulding me into the person in becoming stronger and it actually taught me a lot of things that I needed to learn, and I'm still learning now.

"Obviously a lot of people will say negative things about what was happening, but it taught me to actually love and forgive them for obviously not agreeing and that's something that I've learnt to take on."

All Blacks TJ Perenara and Brad Weber spoke out against Folau's comments at the time, while fans also expressed their disappointment on social media.

Folau's own teammate David Pocock also openly disagreed with his stance.

"I totally understand everyone else's view," Folau said.

"They are obviously different to mine and I respect that.

"It doesn't change how I look at that person.

"What I don't want to do is compromise what I believe in and being true to my faith in God.

"I'm always going to follow that even though probably a lot of people won't agree with that.

"That's fine. I'll still respect them and love everyone else for who they are.

"In terms of being true to what I believe in that won't change."

The Sydney Morning Herald reported yesterday that the 69-test veteran has signed a new deal until the end of 2022.

It's a coup for Rugby Australia after recently re-signing captain Michael Hooper and prop Allan Alaalatoa on for five-year deals.

Folau has scored 34 tries in 69 tests for Australia after making his debut against the British and Irish Lions in 2013, joining rugby after stints in the NRL and ARL.

Folau's wife, Silver Ferns shooter Maria Folau, recently signed a new contract in the Australian Super Netball to play with the Adelaide Thunderbirds.