BCCI imposes a five-ODI ban on Harbhajan

The day after the Nanavati inquiry commission submits report on Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap row, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposes a five ODI match ban on Harbhajan Singh for slapping his national teammate S Sreesanth during an IPL match between Mumbai Indians and the Kings XI Punjab.

On Wednesday BCCI disciplinary committee charged Harbhajan (popularly known as Bhajji) with level four offence where a maximum punishment lies with a life ban or up to a maximum of five ODIs and/or three test matches.

Considering the already imposed ban in terms of 11 IPL matches the ban came as a relief to Bhajji, however, BCCI handed over the judgement with stern warning that any further misconduct could lead to a life ban.

With the pronouncement which came into effect from May 14, Harbhajan will miss the upcoming Bangladesh triangular series and also two matches of Asia Cup scheduled to be held in Pakistan next month.

The renowned off-spinner has already lost about Rs 3 crore as match fees for seating out from the ongoing domestic Indian Premier League matches. Soon after the slap incident the IPL had handed an 11-match match considering the significance of the tournament, which involves players from almost all national cricket teams.