Kurtley Beale has been fined A$45,000 (R434,000) for his involvement in the recent text message scandal.
The Wallabies back sent the texts to business manager Di Patston, who later resigned because of the stress the incident caused.
However, it’s understood Beale convinced the panel that one of the text messages he was alleged to have sent was actually sent from someone else, using forensic testing of his phone as evidence.
Beale was not selected for the Wallabies' matches against Argentina in Mendoza and the All Blacks in Brisbane because of the texting controversy, but is now available for their end-of-year tour.
'I am satisfied with tonight’s outcome,’ Beale said in a statement. 'There was conjecture about my contract being terminated, however the tribunal agreed that on the basis of the evidence that a fine was appropriate. I’m relieved there is no termination and no suspension and I can now continue playing rugby.
'I’m also happy the evidence presented to the tribunal did not establish that I sent the second text and photograph. This is why I fought so hard to prove my innocence regarding that text.
'I’d like to apologise to Di Patston and the broader community for my behaviour, particularly to rugby fans.'
ARU CEO Bill Pulver said they would accept the tribunal’s findings and re-open contract discussions with Beale.
