Israel Folau has requested a code of conduct hearing as Rugby Australia look to terminate his contract.
Folau was issued with a breach notice on Monday due to homophobic social media posts which he made last week. The 30-year-old posted an image saying that "hell awaits" for gay people. It was not the first time that the Australian international had expressed such a belief.
Folau had 48 hours to accept the sanction or request a hearing.
Rugby Australia will now make arrangements with the Rugby Union Players' Association for the hearing.
"Israel has responded formally today to request a Code of Conduct hearing which, under the circumstances, was not an unexpected outcome," said Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle.
"We will now work to confirm a date for the hearing as soon as possible."
Folau has won 73 caps for Australia. Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika said earlier this week that he would not be able to select the back for his side again.
Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
