Faf du Plessis fined for ball-tampering but cleared to play 3rd Test vs Australia

In what came as a huge relief for the South African cricket team, skipper Faf du Plessis was fined for ball-tampering but was cleared to play the third and final Test against Australia.

New Delhi: South Africa's interim Test skipper Faf du Plessis was fined for ball-tampering on Tuesday but was cleared to play the third and final Test against Australia.

Du Plessis was charged for breaching Article 2.2.9 of the ICC Code of Conduct after television footage appeared to show him applying an artificial substance to the ball during the fourth day’s play in the second Test against Australia in Hobart. (WATCH: Faf du Plessis caught shining the ball using lolly in mouth against Australia)

The charge relates to changing the condition of the ball in breach of Law 42.3 and was laid by the ICC Chief Executive David Richardson who has exercised his right to do so according to Article 3.1.3 of the Code.

Du Plessis had pleaded not guilty to the charge, as a result of which, the matter was heard by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees.

Pycroft held a preliminary hearing on Monday and heard the submissions of the parties.

South Africa have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series against Steve Smith and his men. The final Test is scheduled to be played at Adelaide Oval from November 24.