Craig Gilroy apologises for offensive WhatsApp message sent to Stuart Olding

Ulster Rugby and the IRFU are conducting an internal review.

Craig Gilroy has apologised for a WhatsApp message he sent which appeared as evidence during the rape trial of his Ulster teammates Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding. Ulster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed that the wing, 27, is the subject of an internal review. Until the outcome of that review has been determined, Gilroy will not be considered for selection. During the trial in Belfast, it emerged that a person referred to as 'CG' sent a WhatsApp message which read: "Any sluts get fucked?" Olding's response was: "precious secrets."

During the trial over the alleged rape of a then 19-year-old student in Belfast in June 2016, it emerged that a person, referred to only as ‘CG’ in court, had sent a WhatsApp message to Olding which used an offensive term about women.

“It doesn’t mean anything,” Olding said when explaining the exchange. “Just a nonsense comment.”

Jackson and Olding were found not guilty last week by a jury at Laganside Courts in Belfast. Gilroy on Tuesday evening apologised for any offence caused.

“I would like to apologise unreservedly for any offence caused by the Whatsapp message I sent in June 2016.

“I would just like to clarify it was sent privately, not part of any group chat. Regardless my comment was totally inappropriate and is not an accurate reflection of my beliefs (nor) Ulster rugby’s values.

“I take full responsibility for my actions and in future will ensure the language I use in private or public better reflects who I am and what I stand for. I am deeply sorry for the hurt my comment has caused. Craig.”

https://twitter.com/cgilroy14/status/981289542278893568 Ulster Rugby and the IRFU said: “Ulster Rugby and the IRFU confirm that as Craig Gilroy is subject to an internal review, he will not be available for selection this weekend.”