In a setback for Sydney Sixers, Tom Curran is set to miss the next four matches in the 2023/24 Big Bash season after being found guilty of intimidating an umpire. The incident occurred ahead of Sydney Sixers’ clash with Hobart Hurricanes in Launceston on December 11 during the warm-up.
Pitch Intrusion Drama: Tom Curran’s Controversial Practice Run-Up and Umpire Confrontation
Curran attempted a practice run-up on the pitch, prompting a warning from the fourth umpire against running on the pitch after completing an initial run-up. Cricket Australia detailed the incident, stating that the umpire gestured for Curran to move away from the pitch. In response, Curran was seen gesturing for the umpire to move away, and he then attempted a practice run-up, running straight towards the umpire.
Under Big Bash playing conditions, only the captain and team coach are allowed on the pitch before play starts. Curran, who later took three wickets and scored the winning runs in Sydney Sixers’ victory, was charged with breaching article 2.17 of the code of conduct, related to the “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire.”
Breach of Protocol: Curran’s Actions Violate Big Bash Regulations and Code of Conduct
Match referee Bob Parry found Curran guilty, resulting in a four-match suspension. Despite Curran’s contestation of the charge, the decision stands, converting into a four-match sanction. The 28-year-old all-rounder, with three wickets and an economy of 5.25 in two appearances, is expected to miss crucial matches.
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Curran’s Future: Contract with Desert Vipers, Availability for Sydney Sixers, and Club’s Appeal
Curran, contracted with Desert Vipers in the ILT20 starting on January 19, will likely be available for Sydney Sixers’ first nine matches. The Head of Sydney Sixers, Rachael Haynes, confirmed the club’s intention to appeal the decision, maintaining that Curran did not knowingly or intentionally intimidate the match official. The club expressed support for Curran during this period and looks forward to his return to the field.