Stuart quits Kangaroos

Aussie coach steps down after being fined for outburst

Last updated: 8th December 2008

Stuart quits Kangaroos

Stuart: Has quit the Kangaroos

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Ricky Stuart has quit as Australia coach after he was fined for abusing World Cup final referee Ashley Klein.

Stuart was left fuming at Klein's performance as the Kangaroos suffered shock 34-20 loss to New Zealand in the final.

And the former dual-code international let his feelings be known when he saw Klein in the lobby of a hotel the following morning.

Stuart had later apologised for his "inappropriate and offensive" behaviour towards Klein, claiming he was still emotional following the defeat.

But after being found guilty by the Rugby League International Federation and fined $20,000 (Aus) for his outburst, Stuart opted to resign as coach.

In a statement issued following a two-and-a-half hour meeting at Australian Rugby League headquarters in Sydney, Stuart said: "This has been the most difficult decision to make in view of the great honour and enjoyment that comes from coaching our national team.

"I believe that making this decision is in the best interests of the game and for me personally.

"In view of the circumstances it was the only decision. The penalty that has been handed down has been accepted by me as fair and reasonable."