Wellington, Jan 8 NZPA - Central Districts cricket coach Dermot Reeve has been censured and fined by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for remarks alleging ball-tampering by Auckland's English import Ravi Bopara.

A code of conduct hearing, heard by commissioner Roger Mori, found Reeve's comments in the media constituted a breach of the code.

NZC chief executive Justin Vaughan had initiated the hearing to determine whether Reeve's comments -- made after a one-day match between Central Districts and Auckland last month -- were prejudicial to the game or brought it into disrepute.

Mori noted that Reeve's actions were not malicious and were motivated by a desire to prevent ball-tampering in future cricket matches.

However, he said Reeve's actions in involving the media were misguided and inappropriate.

Mori ruled that Reeve be censured for his remarks, and fined $750.

Vaughan said he was pleased the matter had been determined, but would make no further comment as the finding was potentially subject to appeal.