 Symonds clatters the streaker at the Gabba |
Australia's Andrew Symonds will not face any action after flattening a streaker during Tuesday's one-day international against India. Robert Ogilivie evaded security and ran on to the pitch during Australia's innings in Brisbane but Symonds floored him with a shoulder tackle. Ogilivie was fined AUS $1,500 (�700) by magistrates for wilful exposure and interfering with a sports event. But Cricket Australia said there was no case for Symonds to answer. Australian players have been told not to get involved with spectators on the field ever since Terry Alderman injured his shoulder during the 1982-83 Ashes series. And the players' code of conduct forbids physical assault of a rival player, official or spectator. The sanction, if found guilty of such an offence, is a suspension, ranging from five Tests or 10 one-day internationals, up to a life ban. However, Cricket Australia spokesman Michael Brown said: "Symonds was dealing with self-preservation, which we support 100%  | 606: DEBATE |
"No person has the right to impinge upon another person's space, particularly a sportsman plying his trade." Symonds, who had not scored at that stage, eventually made 42 before falling lbw to Harbhajan Singh as Australia lost the game by nine runs. Following his court appearance, Ogilvie told journalists: "It was great actually, just like playing [Aussie Rules] football." Magistrates were told he had been drinking with his brother and friends when he decided to take off his clothes and run onto the outfield. Ogilivie said he would not streak again but had no regrets about the incident, adding: "You only live once, don't you?" Former Australia captain Greg Chappell escaped a fine for hitting a streaker on the buttocks with a bat during a match in Auckland, New Zealand, in 1976.
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