Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been fined 40 percent of his match fee after being found guilty of breaching the ICC’s Code of Conduct during the Boxing Day Test against England in Melbourne on Monday.

“Ponting was charged with a Level 1 offence under article 2.1.3 (h) of the code which relates to “arguing or entering into a prolonged discussion with the umpire about his decision,” said ICC statement received here.

Ponting pleaded guilty to the charge and as such, under the provisions of the code, the matter was determined by Ranjan Madugalle of the Elite Panel of ICC Match Referee without the need for a full hearing.

The match referee imposed a fine equivalent to 40% of the player’s match fee.

The charge was brought by on-field umpires Aleem Dar and Tony Hill, third umpire Marais Erasmus, all from the Elite Panel of ICC Umpires.

Explaining his decision, Madugalle said “Ricky’s actions as captain of his country were unacceptable. A captain is expected to set the example and not get involved in a prolonged discussion with the on-field umpires and question their decision.

“While pleading guilty to the charge, Ricky understood that the discussion went far too long. He apologised for his action and stated that he has nothing but respect for the umpires and his on-field actions were not intended to show disrespect to Aleem Dar or Tony Hill”.

Offences included in Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct can range from an official reprimand up to 50 per cent of his or her match fee.