DUBAI, United Arab Emirate (AP):

India spinner Harbhajan Singh was banned for three Tests yesterday after being found guilty of racially abusing Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds during the second Test in Sydney.

The International Cricket Council said the charge was laid by umpires Mark Benson and Steve Bucknor after the close of play on day three following a complaint from Australia captain Ricky Ponting. The ICC said Harbhajan was alleged to have made a 'monkey' comment directed at Symonds.

Match referee Mike Proctor held a four-hour hearing at the Sydney Cricket Ground after Australia's 122-run victory and ruled that the case against the India spinner was proved.

"I am satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that Harbhajan Singh directed that word at Andrew Symonds and also that he meant it to offend on the basis of Symonds' race or ethnic origin,'' Procter said.

Harbhajan, who has 24 hours to appeal, will miss the remaining two Tests including the next match at the WACA in Perth.

The punishment against the spinner comes after Symonds was the target of racist monkey gestures and language from Indian fans during Australia's one-day tour in October.