Melbourne authorities clamp down

The authorities at the MCG have vowed to clamp down on members after reports that Indian supporters were racially abused during last Friday's VB Series match against Australia. The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) said that any members found guilty of such behaviour faced suspension or expulsion.

The problems came in the southern stand - where members are temporarily housed during the extensive building works taking place at the ground - with several supporters reporting being subjected to abuse.

Stephen Gough, chief executive of the MCC, confirmed that the club had received written complaints about racial abuse, drunkenness and bad language. "We just have to be vigilant about these things," he said. "As difficult as it is due to the relocation, there is no excuse for poor behaviour, so we'll be monitoring not only our members, but the public and others as part of that."

There were five arrests for drunkenness during the match, and a further 130 people were ejected from the ground.