Smith fined 30 per cent of match fee for Code of Conduct breach

South African captain Graeme Smith has been fined 30 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during his country's first Test match against Australia.

Smith was found guilty of showing dissent at an umpire's decision by ICC Match Referee Chris Broad in a hearing after play concluded in Cape Town on Saturday.

Smith was found to have breached Level 1.3 of the ICC Code which relates to "showing serious dissent at an umpire's decision by action or verbal abuse" after he was given out lbw in the second innings.

"As captain of his side Graeme needs to lead by example," said Mr Broad.

"His actions on his dismissal were not acceptable. He is aware of this and has apologised for his actions. I hope that we will not see this sort of behaviour from him again."

All Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee.

The charge was brought by TV umpire Karl Hurter and on-field umpires Aleem Dar and Billy Doctrove.

Chris Broad reached his conclusion after a hearing attended by the above officials plus Smith, coach Micky Arthur and manager Goolam Raja. For Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct the ICC Match Referee's decision is final and binding.