THE HASHTAG #notmycaptain trended during today's Six Nations test between Ireland and France.
While Rory Best and his team were preparing for their challenge against their French brothers, many Irish rugby fans have began a boycott of Irish rugby.
The appearance of Best at the rape trial of his two team-mates Jackson and Olding has lead to widespread criticism, with many voicing their disappointment at Best supporting his colleagues when they have been accused of rape and sexual assault.
Rugby fans used the hashtag #notmycaptain to express their mixed feelings towards the Irish rugby team.
“Innocent until proven guilty” only has meaning in the criminal justice system, it is not an absolute truth & should not protect those accused of heinous acts. The public are free to reach their own conclusions & choose to believe Jackson et al are guilty. #FRAvIRE #NotMyCaptain
— Rebecca Flynn (@flynnfluencer) February 3, 2018
Haven't deliberately missed a game in years. Until today. He stood with his mates - I stand with that woman. #notmycaptain
— Sharon Leavy (@SharonLeavy1) February 3, 2018
Going to the match in Paris today with a bit of a heavy heart. As a rape survivor I am sickened by what happened to that poor 19 year old girl and stand #ShoulderToShoulder with her. @RoryBest2 you need to stand aside now. Your actions were deplorable #notmycaptain
— Linda (@Dizzydub1) February 3, 2018
Don't go to court and support an alleged rapist and captain your country... it's wrong?#NotMyCaptain
— Martina Kelly (@charliekelly25) February 3, 2018
Regardless of trial outcome, @RoryBest2 showed terrible judgement supporting the lowlife former players who at the very minimum have zero respect for women #notmycaptain
— M. Salter-Townshend (@mststats) February 3, 2018
Can't believe lack of judgment from @RoryBest2 and #IRFU in attending that trial. As captain. At all. Not surprised #notmycaptain is trending. Such poor role model. Go on the women's team.
— Mary Favier (@rosablackgp) February 3, 2018
I know nothing about rugby, nor do I give a shit about it, but I respect those who have an interest in any sport. However, if this disgusting behaviour towards women is what Irish rugby players are about, I will be encouraging my kids to steer very clear. Horrific. #notmycaptain
— Kate Larkin (@katie_l) February 3, 2018
"... so technically we don’t need permission to do stuff in our own time..."
They're the words of a stroppy, impudent teen, not a 35 year old man who definitely knows better.
Best should be binned as captain. #notmycaptain https://t.co/OCaVLT5oej— Tim (@TimForde) February 3, 2018
