3 May 2012

Byrnes likely to appeal fine

9:55 am on 3 May 2012

The Melbourne Rebels lock Adam Byrnes is expected to appeal his heavy fine from Super Rugby's governing body SANZAR for his verbal lashing of NSW Waratahs centre Tom Carter.

Byrnes was fined 10 thousand dollars yesterday for an "unwarranted and serious verbal attack" on Carter in comments published in Sydney's Daily Telegraph in March.

They came after he'd successfully appealed a 10-match ban for dangerous play against Carter who had alleged he was eye-gouged by the Russian international during the round-two match.

Byrnes, who hasn't played since that match due to an elbow injury, has until tonight to decide whether to appeal, but it's believed he intends to do so.

Byrnes has resumed full training and is hopeful of making his return to playing with the Rebels next round after turning out for Sydney club Easts this weekend.

He is off-contract at the end of the season and is currently negotiating with Melbourne about his future.