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Israel Folau opts not to appeal contract termination

Israel Folau has opted not to appeal his contract termination Matt Roberts/Getty Images

Israel Folau has opted not to appeal his contract termination by Rugby Australia [RA].

The 72-hour window Folau had to lodge an appeal expired early on Monday afternoon [AEST], the governing body confirming it had received no communication from the now-former Wallabies star.

Just a short while later, Folau himself confirmed he would not be launching an appeal, saying he did not think RA had the ability to treat him fairly.

"The last few weeks and, in particular, the last 72 hours have given me considerable opportunity to reflect and think about my future," Folau said in a statement.

"I will not be exercising my right to appeal Rugby Australia's decision to terminate my employment contract.

"My decision not to commence Rugby Australia's appeal process is in no way an acceptance of the judicial panel's findings.

"I simply do not have confidence in Rugby Australia's ability to treat me fairly or lawfully throughout this process."

The 30-year-old cross-code star said he would however continue to explore his options.

"The messages of support from fans, players, former rugby administrators and the public have been humbling," Folau continued.

"I believe I still have a lot of rugby left in me and the potential impact of Rugby Australia's decision on my reputation and my career is substantial.

"Ultimately, I need to do what is best for my family, my teammates and the fans, so I am considering all potential avenues open to me."

Folau had on Friday learned his employment would be terminated, after a three-person panel agreed his "high-level" breach of the Code of Conduct warranted dismissal.

The two-time John Eales Medallist was just one year into a new $[Aus]4 million four-year deal when he reignited his controversial social media postings.