Tom Curran Imposed Four-Match Suspension by BBL for Umpire Intimidation

Tom Curran, the England fast bowler currently playing for Sydney Sixers in the ongoing Big Bash League, has received a four-match suspension for a level-3 offense under Cricket Australia’s code of conduct. The sanction comes after he was found guilty of intimidating an umpire. Despite the penalty, the Sixers have expressed their intent to “vigorously appeal” the decision.

The incident occurred prior to the Sixers’ recent match against Hobart Hurricanes in Launceston on December 11. According to Cricket Australia, Curran was attempting a practice run-up on the pitch during pre-match drills when the fourth umpire intervened, preventing him from entering the pitch and resulting in the altercation.

Statement from Cricket Australia

“The umpire took position next to the stumps, blocking Curran from approaching the pitch and gestured to Curran to move away from the pitch,” a statement from Cricket Australia read. “Curran was seen in the footage gesturing to the umpire to move away from the pitch. 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 faced charges under Article 2.17 of the code of conduct, as cited by match referee Bob Parry, for “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire, match referee, or medical personnel, whether by language or conduct (including gestures) during a match.” Despite contesting the charge, Curran was found guilty, resulting in a four-match suspension, equivalent to four BBL games. Cricket Australia disclosed that the imposed ban would keep Curran out of action for the forthcoming matches against Adelaide Strikers, Melbourne Stars, Sydney Thunder, and Brisbane Heat.

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Tom Curran & The Sixers’ Response

In response, the Sixers announced their intention to appeal the sanction. Head of Sixers, Rachael Haynes, stated, “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. We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field.“

After the ban on the English cricketer, 7Cricket released a video capturing the incident. In the footage, Curran is observed sprinting around the pitch, preparing for a bowling run-up. The umpire positioned himself on the side of the stump, attempting to block Curran from stepping onto the pitch. However, Curran continued his run towards the umpire, managing to dodge him in the last moment to avoid a collision. Subsequently, an argument ensued between the two parties.

The vision everyone's been waiting for.

This is the series of events that's led to Tom Curran's four-game suspension… pic.twitter.com/CRcBujbIl0

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 21, 2023

The Sixers are 3rd in the table, having secured victories in both of their league matches thus far. Their next fixture is scheduled for December 22 against Adelaide Strikers.

Tom Curran’s recent acquisition by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 1.5 crore has introduced an intriguing element to the ban. Fans are actively speculating on the potential influence this development might exert on RCB’s team dynamics in the forthcoming IPL 2024. Curran is slated to join the ranks of Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, and Dinesh Karthik, playing under the leadership of Faf du Plessis. The high-stakes acquisition has certainly sparked interest and discussion among cricket enthusiasts.

Tom Curran’s Cricketing Lineage and Sibling Connections

Tom Curran is the son of former Zimbabwean international cricketer Kevin Curran and the sibling of both Ben Curran, a batsman for Northamptonshire CCC, and Sam Curran, an all-rounder for England, Surrey and Punjab Kings.

Curran also won earned the Cricket Writers’ Club Young Cricketer of the Year award in 2015 for his outstanding performances. While he was part of the England squad that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup, he did not play in any matches during the tournament.

In August 2017, Curran was included in the squad for Cape Town Knight Riders in the inaugural season of the T20 Global League. However, due to postponements and subsequent cancellation, the tournament did not take place until November 2018.