Sydney Sixers dealt a huge blow as Tom Curran lands 4-match suspension
Curran's absence will be a huge blow for the 3-time Champions.
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Dec 21, 2023 4:01 pm
BBL’s Tom Curran cops a four-game suspension for umpire dissent, sparking a debate about player behaviour and respect for officials
Sydney Sixers’ all-rounder Tom Curran has been slapped with a four-game suspension in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) following an incident deemed as “intimidation of an umpire”. This ruling has sparked controversy, casting a shadow over the high-voltage T20 league. The incident occurred prior to Sydney Sixers’ clash against the Hobart Hurricanes on December 11th when the Englishman tried to practice his run-up on the pitch during the pre-match warm up.
Following a hearing, the independent commissioner found Curran guilty, resulting in the four-game suspension. This effectively rules him out of the Sixers’ in the remaining matches in the regular season, a significant blow to their playoff aspirations. It has been learnt that the 4th umpire made an effort to stop Curran. Curran then moved to the opposite end of the surface in order make a similar attempt. The umpire then stood next to the stumps to prevent Curran from completing the run-up. Ignoring the 4th umpire’s attempts to intervene, Curran charged towards the pitch, forcing the umpire to step aside to avoid a collision.
Under section 6.3 of the tournament’s playing conditions, only the captain and team coach are permitted to walk on the pitch to assess its condition prior to the start of play, with spiked footwear also not allowed at this time.
This incident led to Curran being charged by match referee Bob Parry under Article 2.17 of the code of conduct for “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire, match referee or medical personnel whether by language or conduct (including gestures) during a match”. The 28-year old contested the charge but he was deemed guilty which has now led to the aforementioned suspension.
Sixers’ to appeal suspension
The Sydney Sixers, on their part have confirmed that they will appeal against the suspension. “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,” head of the franchise, Rachael Haynes, said.
She added that Curran has full support from the franchise at this time. “We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field,” she said.
