ESSEX captain James Foster has been rapped across the knuckles by the club for a “serious breech of discipline”.

Foster was hauled before club chiefs after he questioned the umpire’s decision after being given out during the Friends Life t20 match against Surrey Lions at the Kia Oval on June 13.

Essex bosses read the wicketkeeper the riot act before imposing an undisclosed fine on the 31-year-old player, who took over as skipper from Mark Pettini last summer.

“The club takes all breaches of discipline very seriously,” said Essex chief executive David East.

“James has been severely reprimanded and fined.

“He has also been reminded of his obligations for personal discipline and for maintaining an appropriate example as captain of the club.”

Foster, who is currently midway through his benefit year, had scored 31 runs when he was given out after being caught by Jason Roy.

Essex were bowled out for 111 in reply to Surrey’s 154-7 in a match the Lions won by 43 runs.