GRAEME Hick was given a suspended ban after displaying dissent after his first innings dismissal in the First Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

The Worcestershire batsman was summoned to a hearing at the close of play on the fourth day by Test match referee Hanumant Singh with England coach Duncan Fletcher also present.

Hick shook his head at being given out, caught behind by umpire Peter Manuel shortly before lunch.

But after a lengthy hearing Singh, who warned both sides of the possible punishment if he did not adhere to the International Cricket Council's code of conduct prior to the start of the series, issued a suspended one-match ban.

This will end once the current tour is completed.

Singh said: "As far as dissent is concerned we must learn to accept decisions with good grace.

"If you are a public figure you are a role model and must act in a manner appropriate to that position."

Sri Lanka were also warned about their excessive appealing prior to the lunch interval which Singh claimed, "was a lot better" in the second session, and has written a letter to their cricket board outlining his complaints.