Sydney Sixers all-rounder Tom Curran’s appeal to dismiss the four-match ban in the Big Bash League (BBL) has been rejected on Sunday (December 24). Speaking about the incident, a video footage of Tom Curran had gone viral on the social media platforms after he apparently refused to comply with the umpire’s direction to stay off the pitch while warming up before a Big Bash League match between Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes recently.
“My intention was always to veer off to Umpire Qureshi’s right, in a similar way to my run up at the other end. I had never considered running into him and never considered that he would think that was my intention. However, on reflection, I should have repositioned my run up a metre or so to my left. I would not do the same if the situation arose again, and I am sorry,” said Tom Curran in his statement.
“I am genuinely sorry that I chose to continue to practice my run up in the direction of Umpire Qureshi and if he ever thought I sought to make physical contact with him,” he added.
Officials must be respected: Cricket Australia
In upholding the ban, Cricket Australia general manager Alistair Dobson said match officials must be respected. “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,” he said.
“We acknowledge the remorse Tom’s shown following the appeal and look forward to seeing him back in Sixers colours.” Sixers head Rachael Haynes said the club accepted the punishment. “We sought to appeal the original decision based on previous code of conduct cases,” she said.
Despite missing on of their pro all-rounder Tom Curran, Sydney Sixers are doing quite well in the ongoing Big Bash League. Sixers are currently placed second in the ongoing competition after winning their all three games so far.
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