Byrnes fined for comments

Melbourne - Melbourne Rebels lock Adam Byrnes has been fined a total of 7 500 Australian dollars ($7 700) by SANZAR for his "unwarranted and serious verbal attack" on Waratahs centre Tom Carter.

Byrnes, who hasn't played for the Rebels since round two of the Super 15, was found by SANZAR judicial officer Nigel Hampton to have committed an "act of misconduct" for his comments published in Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper in March.

The comments came after Carter alleged he was eye-gouged by Byrnes during their March 2 game.

Byrnes was initially found guilty, but successfully appealed a 10-week ban, with SANZAR finding there was no conclusive evidence.

In the March newspaper article, Byrnes said Carter's allegations were a "disgrace" and "a very poor quality to have as a human being."