A top Pakistan Cricket Board official today said they were in possession of the tapes which recorded the comments and the matter had been brought to the notice of match referee Chris Broad.

"Our manager, Talat Ali has brought the matter to the notice of the match referee and is in possession of the tapes on which the comments have been made," PCB Director of cricket operations Saleem Altaf said.

One of the South African players was caught on the stump microphone mouthing words that the Pakistani supporters were behaving "like bloody animals" and something should be done about the "f****** Pakistanis".

The player had reacted after rookie spin bowler Paul Harris was alllegedly abused when fielding near the ropes by some Pakistani supporters, seven of whom were later ejected from the stadium by police and one was even charged for fighting with the police.

The obscenities were broadcast live on television during the fourth day's play.

Altaf said sledging was acceptable as long as it was not spiked with racist taunts.

"The South African cricket authorities have also taken up the matter. Sledging is acceptable but if it is tainted with racist comments it is unacceptable. Anyone making racist taunts is liable to be punished under the International Cricket Council Code of Conduct," Altaf said.