League: Fletcher apologises for racist outburst

SYDNEY - Bryan Fletcher was yesterday stripped of the South Sydney captaincy and fined A$10,000 ($11,120) for a racial slur against Parramatta's Dean Widders.

Fletcher, who made the remark to Widders during Sunday's NRL match between the Eels and Souths, was also suspended from his club's match this weekend and ordered to assist Widders in his work with the Aboriginal community.

Half of the fine will be suspended and the rest paid to an Aboriginal charity of Widders' choice.

A contrite Fletcher apologised yesterday for the racial taunt.

"The comments were totally unacceptable and for that I am sorry," he said.

"My actions have set a very poor example for kids who follow league, and these type of comments cannot be tolerated in our game.

"It is not in my character to make these type of comments and I admit I made a huge mistake.

"What was said was in the heat of the battle. However, it is inexcusable and I fully accept the consequences of my actions."

Fletcher said he had been friends with Widders for about 10 years and spoke to the Eels' forward on Sunday night to issue a personal apology.

Rabbitohs' chief executive Shane Richardson said Fletcher's actions were totally unacceptable.

"They certainly are out of character and he is showing great remorse," he said.

"However, a clear message needs to be sent that this type of racial taunt is unacceptable."

Fletcher described the incident as easily the lowest point in his career.

The Eels won 52-16.

- AAP