Bryan Fletcher and Mark Waugh weigh in on Israel Folau

The NRL’s stance on Israel Folau after he reportedly expressed interest in a return is “hypocritical” in the eyes of an Aussie sports great.

Aussie sporting legends Mark Waugh and Bryan Fletcher have weighed in on the ongoing Israel Folau saga which this week saw another twist.

After being dismissed by Rugby Australia last month for a homophobic Instagram post, it is understood Folau is aiming to return to the NRL.

However the NRL is maintaining a hard line stance Folau will not be considered for registration while his controversial Instagram post on homosexuals and other sinners remains on his social media accounts.

Fletcher said he wasn’t anticipating a return to the rugby league fold for the 30-year-old any time soon.

“I don’t think he will be, Peter Beattie and Todd Greenberg both came out (and scratched a Folau comeback) when there were whispers,” he said.

“They definitely won’t, not for a couple of years. If they let in Israel Folau, I reckon the sponsors will pull away.

“I’ve got no doubt every club will take him, but the NRL won’t let him play.”

“There’s blokes that’ have done worse,” Mark Waugh chimed in. “So that’s a bit hypocritical.”

‘I’ve got no doubt every club will take him, but the NRL won’t let him play.’

“Our position on Israel Folau remains the same,” ARL Commission chairman Peter Beattie told AAP this week. “We are an inclusive game with respect for all. Israel has social media posts online that go against what our game stands for.

“As it stands, he will not be considered for registration. What Israel chooses to do in relation to his social media posts and his faith is a matter for him.”

Rugby Australia tore up Folau’s $5 million, four-year contract after he refused to take down an Instagram post which quoted bible scripture and said homosexuals and other sinners were destined for hell.

Folau was reportedly willing to make concessions to revive his rugby league career but the NRL are steadfast he cannot be trusted as a repeat offender.

He had previously used social media to tell a follower God’s plan for homosexuals was: “Hell.. unless they repent of their sins and turn to God.”

It’s understood the NRL were also angered the story emerged on the day of the State of Origin series opener at Suncorp Stadium.

They also took a dim view after he walked out on the game at the end of 2010 to sign with the AFL.

Folau played 91 games for Melbourne and Brisbane and was one of the game’s biggest stars, making five Origin and eight Test appearances before defecting to rival codes.