Folau finally inks new deal with Waratahs

Sydney - Wallabies and Waratahs star fullback Israel Folau has signed a new deal with the teams that will run through 2022, Fairfax media reported on Wednesday. 

The media group said the contract was inked some time ago but was kept under wraps by Rugby Australia and the Waratahs amid controversy over anti-gay comments by the 29-year-old earlier this year. 

News of the signing followed announcements of other high-profile long-term contracts for Test captain Michael Hooper and tighthead prop Allan Alaalatoa and an agreement last week which will keep playmaker Bernard Foley with the Wallabies through next year's World Cup. 

Folau's rugby union future seemed in doubt after the devout Christian wrote on social media in April that God's plan for gay people was hell unless they repented their sins. 

The comments sparked an uproar and led to Folau being called in by Rugby Australia officials, prompting speculation he might return to rugby league, where he played from 2007-2010. 

But Rugby Australia ultimately decided against any disciplinary action and Folau has continued in the Test side. 

He is currently with the Wallabies in Japan for the third Bledisloe Test against New Zealand.