The fourth day of the ongoing test match between Australia and India was halted due to racial abuse against Indian bowler Mohammad Siraj on Sunday.

On Sunday, Siraj complained about abuse fielding on the fine leg boundary during the second session after allegations surfaced on Saturday. He and his skipper Rahane had talked with umpire Paul Reiffel and the match was paused for about eight minutes.

Siraj also pointed to the crowd from where the abusers were abusing. The New South Wales (NSW) Police expelled six people from their seats.

"Cricket Australia condemns in the strongest terms possible all discriminatory behavior," said Sean Carroll, Cricket Australia’s Head of Integrity and Security. “If you engage in racist abuse, you are not welcome in Australian cricket.

"CA is awaiting the outcome of the International Cricket Council’s investigation into the matter reported at the SCG on Saturday. Once those responsible are identified, CA will take the strongest measures possible under our Anti-Harassment Code, including lengthy bans, further sanctions, and referral to NSW Police."

"As series hosts, we unreservedly apologize to our friends in the Indian cricket team and assure them we will prosecute the matter to its fullest extent."

CCTV footage was being examined to identify the culprits, NSW Venues Chief Executive Kerrie Mather said.

"We are taking this extremely seriously. If those involved are identified, they will be banned from the SGC and all Venues NSW properties under our act," she said.

On Saturday, after Mohammad Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, were abused with racial jibes on the third day of action, BCCI had lodged a complaint.

Rahane reported the situation to the on-field umpires at Day 3 Stumps after having a lengthy conversation with the senior players of the visiting contingent.

"BCCI lodged a formal complaint with ICC match referee David Boon about two of their players Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj being abused by a drunk spectator," a source had told PTI.

Back in 2008, Andrew Symonds had blamed Harbhajan Singh for abusing him and calling him monkey due to which he had to face a three-Test ban.

India received the target of 407 by the Australian team. Australia declared on 312/6 with Cameron Green's and Steve Smith's contribution of 84 and 81 runs respectively in the second session of the fourth day of action.