India allrounder Ravindra Jadeja has been fined 10% of his match fee for using offensive language against Shane Watson, after the Australia batsman was dismissed during the final ODI in Bangalore.
Watson, who had scored a quickfire 49 off 22 balls during the chase of 384, was caught at short third man off Jadeja, before the bowler gave him a send-off. The match referee Andy Pycroft ruled that Jadeja had breached Article 2.1.4 of the ICC code of conduct. Jadeja had apologised for his actions, though, so there was no formal hearing or heavier penalty - such a level one breach could draw a reprimand and a fine of up to 50% of the match fee.
After his ruling, Pycroft said: "Mr Jadeja's reaction after dismissing Shane Watson was clearly in breach of the code as the players are always expected to respect their opponents, no matter what the match situation. Mr Jadeja apologised for his action when on-field umpire Nigel Llong spoke to him immediately after the incident and reminded him of his responsibilities."
There was some tension in the air all through Watson's stay at the crease in Bangalore. He seemed to have done damage to a hamstring halfway through his bowling spell and had to leave the field, and then came out to bat only at No. 8, when Australia were 138 for 6. Watson punched his first ball into the covers, where Shikhar Dhawan fielded it and hobbled exaggeratedly, seemingly mocking Watson and drawing several shakes of the head from him. There were also words exchanged between Virat Kohli and James Faulkner later, with the umpire having to intervene and MS Dhoni having a word with his players.