South Africa captain's ball-tampering appeal disappoints ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) says it is "disappointed" South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has appealed against his fine for ball-tampering.

Television footage appeared to show the 32-year-old licking a finger and shining the ball while eating a sweet in the second Test against Australia.

Du Plessis pleaded not guilty to the charge and denied wrongdoing, claiming he had been made a "scapegoat".

A judicial commissioner will hear the appeal "at the earliest opportunity".

The ICC was unwilling to comment fully until the case has been heard, but it was keen to "clarify the laws of cricket".

"These state a player should not use artificial substances to shine the ball. The ICC understands that to include, but is not limited to, sunscreen, lip ice and residue from sweets.

"Any deliberate attempt to apply such substances to the ball, as was the case here, will not be acceptable.

"Following the appeal we will review the matter along with our members and the MCC to see if there are any learnings to be taken from this issue."

disappointing, indeed !