Champions Trophy: Australia fined for slow over-rate

Clint McKay (L) and captain Adam Voges

Australia had salt rubbed into the wound of their 48-run Champions Trophy defeat by arch-rivals England at Edgbaston on Saturday when they were fined for a slow over-rate.

Match referee Javagal Srinath, the former India bowler, imposed the fines after title-holders Australia were found to be one over short of their target when time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with the International Cricket Council’s code of conduct, Australia’s players were fined 10 percent of their match fee with George Bailey, captain in the absence of the injured Michael Clarke, fined 20 percent in his role as skipper.

The penalty went unchallenged by Australia, so there was no need for a disciplinary hearing.

Saturday’s match was the first in a Group A completed by New Zealand and Sri Lanka, who meet in Cardiff on Sunday.

The top two sides from both pools advance into the semifinals of this tournament for the world’s leading eight one-day international teams.

India and West Indies have set the pace in Group B after wins over South Africa and Pakistan respectively.

The final is due to take place at Edgbaston on June 23.