McMillian caught in the 'act'

Even as the controversy over alleged ball-tampering by Sachin Tendulkar continues to haunt the cricketing world, a television channel on Thursday captured New Zealand medium pacer Craig McMillan running his fingersnails on the seam of the ball on the first day of the second Test against Australia in Hobart.

The video clip clearly showed McMillan running his fingernails down the seam of the ball. Attempting to pick some dirt from the seam, it appeared as if he was lifting the seam with his nails while passing by the umpire.

However, it was not clear whether the bowler had the consent of the umpire to do so.

Tendulkar was slapped with a one-Test ban, suspended till December 31, by match-referee Mike Denness for bringing the game into disrepute by his action in India's second Test against South Africa at Port Elizabeth.

The Mike Denness controversy

Mail Cricket Editor