Melbourne, Nov 17 (IANS): Cricket Australia (CA) Sunday advised that Victorian Bushrangers captain Matthew Wade has been found guilty of breaching the CA Code of Behaviour following his team’s Bupa Sheffield Shield match against the Tasmanian Tigers at Blundstone Arena.

Wade was reported by umpires Ian Lock and Sam Nogajski for breaching Article 2.2.11 -- ‘on-field’, specifically "conduct that was considered unfair play under Law 42 of the Laws of Cricket or against the spirit in which the game of cricket should be played".

While batting during Victoria’s first innings, umpires determined that Wade had tampered with the pitch. Both umpires considered the change to the pitch, which resulted in the creation of a long valley within the protected area, had been created by means other than natural wear and tear.

Wade denied the charge and moved to have the matter heard before a full disciplinary hearing led by Match Referee Daryl Harper who upheld the guilty verdict. He was penalised 50 percent of his match fee and two suspension points which will result in him missing the next round of the Bupa Sheffield Shield.

Wade and Cricket Victoria have the right to appeal the decision. Any appeal must be lodged within the next 48 hours.