Sreesanth fined for excessive appealing

Indian fast bowler Sreesanth has been fined 25% of his match fee for excessive appealing during India's semi-final victory against Australia in Durban. In addition, the Indian team has been fined for its slow over rate, having being found one over short in the allocated time.

Sreesanth was found guilty of breaching clause 1.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct during an appeal for an lbw against Matthew Hayden in the fourth over of the innings. Although the umpire instantly turned down the appeal, Sreesanth persisted.

The charges were brought by all four umpires and match referee Chris Broad said that Sreesanth was fortunate not to get a heavier punishment, despite having breached the Code of Conduct on more than one occasion over the last 12 months.

"Sreesanth was out of order and the incident set a poor example for the millions of people watching either at the venue or on television," Broad said. "In addition to the fine levied, I also warned Sreesanth about his conduct going forward and if he continues to breach the Code of Conduct he can expect more severe penalties to come his way."

Meanwhile, the Indian players were docked 5% of their individual match fees while Mahendra Singh Dhoni, as captain, was fined 10% for their slow over rate during Australia's chase.