symonds did not in anyway provoke this situation."

The Normanby Hotel has denied that Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds was at fault in any way during an alleged incident he was involved in with a member of the public at the establishment on the weekend.

According to a representative from the hotel, Symonds was no more than a victim of the antics of an overzealous fan.

The patron in question apparently tried to hug and take a photo of Symonds with both attempts being declined by the 33-year-old Queenslander.

Following Symonds' refusal, the patron reportedly continued to harass the recently recalled Test all-rounder before being asked to leave by security for what it deemed to be inappropriate behaviour.

Symonds verified this version of events in a statement on Monday evening.

A member of the public acted unreasonably towards me while I was with friends at which time I took steps to remove myself from the situation," said Symonds.

"The member of the public was subsequently removed from the premises as a result of his actions."

"I was sharing some drinks with other players and close friends and did not in anyway provoke this situation. Cricket Australia confirmed that it was still investigating the incident.

"At the moment we're gathering more information, we want to better understand the situation," a CA spokesman said.

"As we understand it, the member of the public approached Andrew and there was an altercation after which the member was ejected by hotel security."

"Andrew was back at the team hotel by 9.30 or 10.00. Some other Australian cricketers were at the bar and we need to speak to those players to gather more information.