Israel Folau’s selection for the World XV prompted the RFU to fly the rainbow Pride flag over Twickenham for the match; the 34-year-old, a Christian fundamentalist, was sacked by Rugby Australia in 2019 because of a series of anti-gay social media posts
Last Updated: 28/05/23 5:58pm
Israel Folau was among the try-scorers for the World XV against the Barbarians
Israel Folau was met with jeers from LGBTQ+ protesters as Eddie Jones’ Barbarians triumphed 48-42 over the World XV on a rollercoaster afternoon at Twickenham.
Folau scored one try for the World XV and initiated a second with a dynamic run from deep, but his every involvement was the subject of boos from small pockets of fans.
The 34-year-old, a Christian fundamentalist, was sacked by Rugby Australia in 2019 because of a series of anti-gay social media posts, including one telling “homosexuals” that “hell awaits you”.
The Rugby Football Union reacted to his selection by World XV head coach Steven Hansen by flying the Pride flag on Twickenham’s roof and there were several rainbow flags evident in the 32,597 crowd.
Folau has switched national allegiance from Australia to Tonga and there is the expectation that the former rugby league star will face a similar reception during this autumn’s Rugby World Cup. But Hansen, who wore a Pride wristband on the day, believes a line should be drawn under the episode.
“Everyone is allowed an opinion,” Hansen said. “We don’t necessarily have to agree with each other on our opinions but you are entitl …