Singh cleared over latest race allegations

Controversial Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh will not face any action over claims he made racist taunts to sections of the crowd in Sydney.

Allegations that the off-spinner made monkey gestures and spat at spectators surfaced after the first match of the CB Series finals against Australia on Sunday.

Match referee Jeff Crowe said he had investigated the claims but decided not to take any action against Harbhajan.

"I have investigated the alleged incident with Cricket Australia's ground security officials after reading newspaper reports and viewing related photographs that have been published," said Crowe.

"After reviewing all available information, I conclude that there is no need to take any action against Harbhajan Singh."

India manager Bimal Soni was quick to defend the player who was described last week by Australian hardman Matthew Hayden as an "obnoxious little weed".

"He did nothing. These stories, I do not believe them and strongly condemn them. I think it is wrong," said Soni.

"Nothing has been done like that, they are making a mountain out of a molehill."

Former Australia skipper Allan Border came out in defence of Harbhajan and said: "I am not too sure how serious it is.

"I mean I was at the ground and I was on that side of the ground and Harbhajan was copping a fair bit of stick from the crowd.

"I didn't notice any gestures at all and I thought he handled himself quite well to be quite honest."

Harbhajan was banned for three matches earlier this season after he was found guilty of racially abusing Andrew Symonds but the suspension was subsequently overturned on appeal.

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