Sydney Sixers star recruit Tom Curran has been banished for four Big Bash League matches after being charged with assaulting an umpire.
Curran contested the accusation, which occurred during the Sixers’ pre-match warm-up against the Hobart Hurricanes on December 11, but was unable to overturn the guilty judgement.
The English international was initially cited by match referee Bob Parry for “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire” following the encounter in Launceston.
Curran went through a practice run up before the game, which culminated in him entering onto a portion of the pitch.
The umpire then warned Curran not to try it again, even though he swapped ends and attempted another practice run up.
“The umpire took position next to the stumps, blocking Curran from approaching the pitch and gestured to Curran to move away from the pitch,” the Commissioner, Adrian Anderson, found in their stated facts within the media release.
“Curran then attempted to perform a practice run up and run at pace straight towards the umpire who stood in the bowling crease facing Curran. The umpire stepped to his right to avoid the risk of collision.”
Curran was found guilty of the violation and was given four suspension points, which amounts to four BBL matches.
The club, however, quickly indicated that they want to appeal the fine.
“Tom and the club maintain that Tom did not knowingly or intentionally intimidate a match official, and on legal advice, we will exercise our right to appeal the decision,” the club’s Head, Rachael Haynes, said.
“We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field.”
What matches could Tom Curran miss for the Sydney Sixers?
Curran will miss the Sixers’ December 26 encounter against the Adelade Strikers, as well as games against the Melbourne Stars (December 26), Sydney Thunder (December 30), and Brisbane Heat (January 1) if the Sixers are unable to overcome the four-match penalty.
