ICC probes racist crowd abuse after complaint from Team India

Gulf Today Report

Play was stopped in the second session on fourth day of the ongoing third Test between India and Australia after Indian players made a complaint to umpires about unsavoury comments being made for Mohammed Siraj by a section of crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) probe followed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah apparently being targeted while they fielded by the boundary ropes late on Saturday.

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Six people were ejected and play halted for nearly 10 minutes Sunday as cricket chiefs have launched an investigation into allegations of the visitors.

The incident happened before the start of the 86th over in Australia's second innings when Siraj, fielding on the boundary line, went to skipper Ajinkya Rahane and raised the issue that some fans were passing abusive comments directed at him.

Indian supporters wave flags during play on day four of the third Test between India and Australia in Sydney. AP

Rahane then walked up to the square leg umpire Paul Reiffel and complained about the same. While players huddled in the centre, security personnel entered the stands and a group of six Australian fans were removed from their seats by New South Wales Police.

The incident follows alleged racial abuse of Indian players by a small section of the SCG crowd on Saturday.

"Cricket Australia condemns in the strongest terms possible all discriminatory behavior. If you engage in racist abuse, you are not welcome in Australian cricket," Sean Carroll, Cricket Australia's Head of Integrity and Security, was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

"CA is awaiting the outcome of the International Cricket Council's investigation into the matter reported at the SCG on Saturday. Once those responsible are identified, CA will take the strongest measures possible under our Anti-Harassment Code, including lengthy bans, further sanctions and referral to NSW Police.

"As series hosts, we unreservedly apologise to our friends in the Indian cricket team and assure them we will prosecute the matter to its fullest extent," he added.