Former Australia cricket captain Steve Waugh said he was surprised to hear about the decision to lift the two-Test ban on India skipper Sourav Ganguly.

"I thought they will make an example. The ICC might have good reasons to backtrack after Ganguly was punished," Waugh, who was in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, as brand ambassador to insurance major AMP Sanmar, told reporters on Friday.

"It came as a pleasant surprise. Ganguly might also have put up a good defence. Anyway, it is a positive thing for the Indian captain and the team," Waugh said.

Waugh, however, said it is the captain's responsibility to maintain a steady over-rate and the team should be aware of the penalty awaiting it in the event of not finishing the match on time.

He said there is no proposal before him to coach the Indian team right now.

John Wright is doing a fine job, he added.

Asked whether Asian players are being singled while handing down punishment, Waugh replied, "There is no prejudice in the game."

The captain with most number of Test wins said he is prepared to become an ambassador for Kerala Tourism.

"I don't mind. It is a beautiful place and there are good resorts. I have been here for the last 24 hours and I find the place peaceful and lovable," he said.

The activities of a brand ambassador are similar to those of the captain of the Australian team. What is important is bringing out the best, he added.