Trainer Matt Cumani has been suspended until the start of the new season and fined $20,000 for his failure to notify stewards of a strangles infection in his Ballarat stables.

Cumani pleaded guilty to two charges in front of the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board on Tuesday.

One charge related to conduct prejudicial to the image, interests, or welfare of racing and the other to failing to notify Racing Victoria of the strangles infection for almost a month.

Cumani’s legal representative had suggested a significant fine, with part suspended, was the appropriate penalty.

MELBOURNE, May 16 AAP –