India made an official complaint on the third day of the test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Saturday (January 9), with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj reported to have received racist abuse.

Play was halted again today after more alleged abuse.

Six people were subsequently ejected from the SCG.

ICC chief executive Manu Sawhney revealed the governing body will support an investigation, which is being led by Cricket Australia and New South Wales police

"There is no place for discrimination in our sport and we are incredibly disappointed that a small minority of fans may think that this abhorrent behaviour is acceptable," Sawhney said.

"We have a comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Policy in place that members have to abide by and ensure is adhered to by fans and we welcome the action taken by ground authorities and Cricket Australia today.

"We will provide Cricket Australia and the relevant authorities with our full support in any ensuing investigation as we will not tolerate any racism in our sport."

The ICC said under their Anti-Discrimination policy, Cricket Australia are required to investigate the issue and provide a report on the incident and any action taken to ensure the issue has been dealt with appropriately.

Cricket Australia’s head of integrity and security Sean Carroll promised the organisation will take the strongest action possible and apologised to the Indian team.

"If you engage in racist abuse, you are not welcome in Australian cricket," Carroll said.

"Once those responsible are identified, Cricket Australia will take the strongest measures possible under our anti-harassment code, including lengthy bans, further sanctions and referral to New South Wales police.

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

India captain Virat Kohli claimed the allegations need to be "looked at with absolutely urgency" and "strict action" taken.

Kohli was not in Australia having travelled home after the first Test prior to the birth of his first child.

"Racial abuse is absolutely unacceptable," he said.

"Having gone through many incidents of really pathetic things said on the boundary Iines, this is the absolute peak of rowdy behaviour.

"It's sad to see this happen on the field.

"The incident needs to be looked at with absolute urgency and seriousness and strict action against the offenders should set things straight for once."