Yesterday, the Australian Cricket Board decided that after the latest outburst in the West Indies it was time Steve Waugh's men were pulled into line.

As the home side closed on the 418 required for victory in the fourth Test, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath became involved in a fracas with Ramnaresh Sarwan, shortly after being hit for 21 off his previous two overs.

McGrath resorted to a favoured team tactic - sledging. A remark to the batsman about some unnatural dealings with Brian Lara brought a swift riposte. The bowler then moved menacingly to the crease and, pointing to Sarwan, was seen to say: "If you ever f---ing mention my wife again, I will f---ing rip your f---ing throat out."

Sarwan had made no reference to the battle McGrath's wife, Jane, is having with cancer and last night McGrath was said to be embarrassed about his over-reaction.

Waugh had also weighed in with some words to Sarwan, but later he was fielding advice from James Sutherland, the ACB chairman.

Mr Sutherland said he did not blame the Australians for the "ugly" incident, and had spoken to Waugh about the need for his world champion team to improve its behaviour.

"It's all very well to be playing the game in the right spirit when things are going your way, but if things are not going your way, that's when the real test is on.

"If you can't carry yourself in the true spirit of the game at those times - perhaps you need to have a good look at yourself."