Aussies apologise for damaging washing machine

The 2010 Commonwealth Games Organising Committee on Friday said Australia have apologised for damaging a washing machine at the Games Village.

"The media reports regarding Australian celebrations at the Athletes' Village and the resultant damage to a washing machine is true. The person in charge of Tower 21 brought it to the notice of the village authorities," Organising Committee general secretary Lalit Bhanot said.

He also revealed that Australian officials apologised for the incident and agreed make good the damages.

"The issue was taken up with the Australian CGA who regretted the incident and agreed to pay for the damage as per guidelines."

Interestingly, earlier in the day, Australia dismissed as "fantasy" and "baseless" reports that its sportspersons indulged in vandalism at the Games Village after their cricket team suffered a crushing defeat in the second Test against India.

"It is factually wrong, insulting to Australia's athletes and can only be described as a fantasy," read a statement from the Australian High Commission.