Video - Cheika weighs in on the Folau Tweet in characteristically gruff fashion

Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has offered his thoughts around the Israel Folau Twitter controversy.

Israel Folau sparked a heated Twitter debate this week after posting a message to explain he would not be supporting gay marriage in Australia.

A postal survey on the subject is to be held Down Under between September and November, with the Australian Rugby Union behind the ‘Yes’ campaign.

The side’s official Twitter account has been updated with a rainbow wallaby as its picture, while captain Michael Hooper has recently expressed his – and the team’s – support for gay marriage.

But that does seemingly not include full-back Folau, a devout Christian, who took to Twitter to make clear his stance.

I love and respect all people for who they are and their opinions. but personally, I will not support gay marriage.✌❤🙏

— Israel Folau (@IzzyFolau) September 13, 2017

Folau’s Tweet prompted hundreds of responses, many of which expressed disappointment in Folau’s view. Former Wales international and Rugby Union’s first openly gay star Gareth Thomas responded to Israel Folau’ Tweet with a one finger salute to the Australian.

I love and respect all people for who they are and their opinions, but personally , 🖕 https://t.co/aOvqjsPuLu

— Gareth Thomas (@gareththomas14) September 13, 2017