Gilchrist was Carlton's guest of honour

The disciplinary hearing lasted for three and a half hours.

ACB chief executive James Sutherland admitted the penalty imposed was "at the very low end" of the scale.

He added: "The deputy senior commissioner found that although Adam's comments were made innocently and in good faith, they were also detrimental to the game of cricket.

"The ACB recognises Adam's outstanding contribution to the image and success of Australian cricket through his conduct both on and off the field.

"The Code of Behanviour is in place for a very important reason. It's fundamental purpose is to promote the image and credibility of the game of cricket and in this case, particularly in the context of the ACB's relationship with other nations."

Gilchrist declined to comment following the hearing, but has apologised to Muralitharan for any offence he may have caused.

Butcher waits

The England and Wales Cricket Board has yet to decide what action it will take over newspaper comments made by batsman Mark Butcher about Sri Lankan paceman Ruchira Perera.

In his column for the Croydon Advertiser, Bucther said: "Having faced him for some time, I can say that he definitely straightens his arm."

Perera was reported to the International Cricket Council following the recent first Test against Sri Lanka at Lord's.

He is now working to re-model his action and has been left out of the team for the second Test at Edgbaston.