BBL 2023: Tom Curan Loses Appeal Over Intimidating Umpire

Sydney Sixers bowler Tom Curran has lost his appeal over a four-match ban in the Big Bash League 2023-24 for intimidating an umpire on Sunday, December 24. The ban was slapped after a pre-match incident against the Hobart Hurricanes. Cricket Australia expressed that the players need to respect the match officials.

During the warm-up session before the Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes games, Tom Curran was involved in an incident with umpire Muhammad Qureshi. Curran warming up, when Qureshi instructed him to not run on the pitch. The match official stood next to the stumps to block Tom Curran from running onto the pitch. However, Curran still went ahead, and the umpire had to step to his right to avoid collision.

The bowler was charged with “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire, match referee or medical personnel whether by language or conduct (including gestures) during a match”. He appealed against the four-match ban, however, it was turned down.

“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,” said CA general manager Alistair Dobson.

Tom Curran expresses “deep regrets” over the incident

Sydney Sixers pacer Tom Curran expressed “deep regrets” over the incident on Sunday, December 24,  saying he has always respected match officials. He apologised for the incident after the appeal was turned down. Tom Curran said in a statement,

“Across my decade-long professional career, I have always sought to have a friendly and respectful relationship with match officials, which I believe is reflected in the lack of prior code of conduct breaches across the world.”