Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Cricketer Harbhajan banned for five ODIs in slapping row

India bowler Harbhajan Singh was barred for five one-day internationals on Wednesday for slapping a team-mate and warned of a life ban if he steps out of line again.

The off-spinner, 27, will miss next month's triangular one-day series in Bangladesh and initial matches of the Asia Cup in Pakistan following the decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

He had already been handed an 11-match ban from a domestic Twenty20 tournament after his attack during the event on Shanthakumaran Sreesanth, who was left in tears.

"The (disciplinary) committee decided to ban Harbhajan for five one-day internationals starting today, and observed that any further instance of misconduct will invoke a life ban," BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah said in a statement.

Harbhajan admitted his guilt and assured the committee there would not be any misconduct in the future, the statement added.

The incident in Mohali last month left Sreesanth weeping inconsolably in full view of television cameras. Harbhajan later apologised to his India team-mate.

Harbhajan has bagged 275 wickets in 66 Tests and 189 in 171 one-dayers.

He was banned for three Tests earlier this year after being found guilty of making racist remarks against Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds, but was let off with a fine following an appeal to the International Cricket Council.

The BCCI also warned Sreesanth, saying it would take "appropriate decision" if the fast bowler did not improve his on-field behaviour.

Sreesanth, 25, has taken 50 wickets in 14 Tests and 59 in 41 one-day internationals.

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