England all-rounder Tom Curran’s appeal to overturn his four-match ban for intimidating an umpire in the Big Bash League has been dismissed.
Curran was charged on Thursday following an incident that occurred during Sydney Sixers’ team warm-up before the match against Hobart Hurricanes on December 11.
Video footage appeared to show the 28-year-old refusing to comply with the umpire’s direction to stay off the wicket while warming up.
Curran has played for Sixers for a number of season
Curran then went to the other end to complete another practice run-up and almost collided with the umpire, who had stood on the bowling crease to prevent the player from encroaching onto the pitch.
A verbal altercation between Curran and the umpire immediately followed.
Cricket Australia’s general manager Big Bash Leagues Alistair Dobson said: “Umpires are part of the lifeblood of cricket and it is essential they are respected and appreciated by players at all levels of the game.
“We acknowledge the remorse Tom’s shown following the appeal and look forward to seeing him back in Sixers colours.
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Sixers captain Moises Henriques says Curran is worried about ‘the assassination of his character’
“Tom has been a long-time contributor to the BBL and is a clear fan-favourite and someone we hope will continue to play an integral role in the competition moving forward.”
Curran will miss Sixers’ next three matches, against Melbourne Stars, Sydney Thunder and Brisbane Heat, having already sat out a win over Adelaide Strikers. He will be available again for the January 3 clash with Heat.
Waugh: Four-game ban is a bit too much
Reflecting on the Curran incident, former Australia batter Mark Waugh – who is now a commentator and pundit – said: “It was silly, there was no need for it, but I think four games is a bit too much.
“He did the wrong thing, we know that. I would have given him two games and then put him on a suspended sentence and, if he does it again, then he gets a more severe punishment.”
Sixers captain Moises Henriques said earlier this week: “We obviously don’t condone any behaviour untoward towards the umpire, but I still can’t quite understand the decision.
Curran lost his appeal to have his four-match ban overturned
“I just can’t help but think we haven’t quite understood the context of the altercation.
“He’s a great man, a real leader in the community and among our team. I’m struggling to comprehend that penalty for what he’s done.
“It’s been a pretty tough time for TC… he has taken it to heart and is really worried. I’m wishing him the best.”
Curran has played for England in all three formats – two Test matches, 28 one-day internationals and 30 T20 internationals – with his last appearance for his country coming in a T20 against Pakistan in July 2021.
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