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Big Benn banned

Image: Benn: Two-game ban

Sulieman Benn was hit with a two-game ban and Brad Haddin and Mitchell Johnson fined after their confrontation in Perth.

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Big Windies spinner banned for two games, Aussie duo fined

West Indies spinner Sulieman Benn has been handed a two-match ban following his confrontation with Australian duo Brad Haddin and Mitchell Johnson. After the trio had been involved in a heated clash on the second day of the third Test at the WACA in Perth, the Aussies have been fined while Benn has been suspended for two one-day internationals. Haddin and Johnson were fined 25% and 10% of their match fees respectively for their roles in the spat, which started as Johnson collided with Benn when trying to run to the non-striker's end. Wicketkeeper Haddin then got involved and exchanged angry words with Benn after watching the clash from the other end. Benn's response two balls later was to fake a throw at the stumps after Haddin had just pushed a ball back at him - a move which made the Aussie jump out of the way.

Confrontation

Obviously unhappy with Benn's actions Haddin marched down at the end of the over and another war of words ensued, before Johnson came in between the two warring factions. Big West Indian Benn was then vigorously pointing his finger at the Aussie wicketkeeper over Johnson's shoulder, forcing umpire Billy Bowden to hastily defuse the situation. As a result Benn was charged with a level two offence of bringing the game into disrepute while Haddin and Johnson were each slapped with level ones. All three were found guilty but Benn was the only one who pleaded not guilty. Benn will now be barred from participating in the opening two Commonwealth Bank series matches against Australia in Melbourne and Adelaide on February 7 and 9 respectively. Commenting on his findings, match referee Chris Broad said: "It was an incident which could have been avoided. No-one likes to see cricketers pointing bats at their opponents or pushing each other away. "It is not the sort of example that players should be setting at any time, least of all in a series which is being played in a great spirit and being followed by millions around the world on television. "The decision to find Benn guilty of a Level 2 offence is indicative of the fact that conduct contrary to the spirit of the game is completely unacceptable. I hope Mr Benn has learnt his lesson and will be careful in the future."

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