Australian batsman Darren Lehmann faces suspension from the current tri series after being charged with a breach of the International Cricket Council's code of conduct for a racist outburst.

But a penalty could also affect the beginning of Australia's World Cup campaign next month.

Lehmann was understood to have yelled "black c****" when entering Australia's dressing room after being dismissed by Sri Lanka during the one-day match in Brisbane on Wednesday.

While the Sri Lankans registered a complaint with match referee Clive Lloyd, they did not push for Lehmann to be charged and he later apologised to the tourists.

But the ICC took a dimmer view, chief executive Malcolm Speed charging him with a level three breach of the ICC code of conduct for players and officials.

Lehmann will face a hearing before Lloyd on Saturday morning in Adelaide.

A guilty finding could result in suspension for between four to eight one-day internationals, effective immediately.

Australia has just two more pool games in the current series with England and Sri Lanka plus an expected two or three finals matches.

While Lehmann was effectively given a rap over the knuckles by Lloyd and the Australian Cricket Board over the incident, Speed was less forgiving.

"I am aware that Mr Lehmann has apologised for his actions and that the Sri Lanka team was reluctant to lay any formal charges," Speed said in a statement.

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