Billy Vunipola on bench for Saracens after support for Folau's anti-LGBT Instagram post
Billy Vunipola is on the bench for Saracens after he refused to unlike an Instagram post published by Israel Folau which made homophobic remarks.
England international Vunipola, the son of a Methodist Minister, said people should follow God's teachings more closely.
Saracens are due to kick off against Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate stadium at 5.30pm on Saturday.
It comes after Vunipola was been dropped by Channel 4 from their Heineken European Cup coverage on Friday.
The 26-year-old was one of a number of stars promoting coverage of the competition.
A Channel Four spokesman said: "These views are incompatible with our values as an inclusive broadcaster and in light of this Billy Vunipola won't be used as a contributor in Channel 4's rugby coverage."
On Wednesday, Australia's Folau said "hell awaits" homosexuals in comments which have resulted in Rugby Australia stating they intend to terminate his contract, effectively ruling him out of this autumn's World Cup.
In an apparent show of support to his fellow Christian, Vunipola states that "Man was made for woman to pro create that was the goal no?"
However, England's first choice number eight adds that "I don't HATE anyone".
Vunipola will meet with the Rugby Football Union to discuss his response to the anti-gay position outlined in his post.
“Rugby is an inclusive sport, and we do not support these views. We will be meeting with Billy to discuss his social media posts,” the RFU said in statement.
The back-rower's club, Saracens, say the will deal with Vunipola internally.
“Saracens proudly embraces diversity and warmly welcomes everyone to the club regardless of race, gender, religion and sexual orientation," a club statement read.
“Our sport is open to all and we strive for it to be free from all forms of discrimination. We recognise that people have different belief systems and we expect everyone to be treated equally with respect and humility.
“As representatives and role models Saracens players have a responsibility not only to themselves but to the club and wider society. Billy Vunipola’s recent social media posts are inconsistent with this and we take this matter very seriously. It will be handled internally.”
Vunipola posted on Friday that he would not back down and unlike the Folau's image.