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WACA pitch invader fined $5k

Perth Scorchers fan who ran onto the WACA Ground after the Scorchers Big Bash semifinal win has been fined $5000. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images

An overenthusiastic Perth Scorchers fan who ran onto the field at the WACA Ground after the team's Big Bash semifinal win has been fined $5000 after pleaded guilty to trespassing.

Spectator Ross Leuzzi, 25, jumped a fence and approached the players while they were celebrating their win against the Melbourne Stars in January.

He made it to the team untouched and hugged spinner Brad Hogg before disappearing into a sold-out crowd of 19,289 people.

Defence lawyer John Hammond said the incident occurred because his client was overenthusiastic and passionate about the Scorchers' win.

"He became just blinded by his passion," he said.

"It was done as a good hearted gesture."

Mr Hammond told the court Leuzzi did not jump the fence because he was drunk or was dared to invade the pitch.

Hogg mentioned the incident on Twitter soon after it had happened.

"Although I don't condone pitch invasions, I can't knock our fans passion," he wrote.

Leuzzi was charged after furious WACA officials reported the incident to police.

Chief Magistrate Steven Heath said there were a number of warnings around the WACA Ground about the dangers of pitch invading.

He told the court none of the other spectators at the match were overcome with the same level of enthusiasm as Leuzzi.

Mr Heath refused to grant Leuzzi a spent conviction.

Outside court, Leuzzi apologised for his actions.

"I am just ready to put this whole incident behind me," he said.

The maximum penalty for trespassing is 12 months jail and a $12,000 fine.