Waratahs paid a heavy price for Folau row, says Phipps


FILE PHOTO: Britain Rugby Union - Australia Captain's Run - Twickenham Stadium - 7/10/16 Israel Folau of Australia during training Action Images via Reuters / Henry Browne/File Photo

SYDNEY (Reuters) - The controversy over Israel Folau's social media posts and subsequent sacking by Rugby Australia had distracted the New South Wales Waratahs and possibly cost them a Super Rugby playoffs place, according to scrumhalf Nick Phipps.

The Waratahs' season all but ended on Saturday with a 35-24 loss to the ACT Brumbies and while they have a slim chance to still make the top eight, they must beat the Otago Highlanders next week and hope other results go their way.

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