Tom Curran, an all-rounder for the Sydney Sixers, was given a four-match suspension for harassing an umpire prior to a Big Bash League encounter, the franchise announced on Thursday.
In accordance with the Cricket Australia Code of Conduct, the 28-year-old England international faces charges of a “Level 3” offense for his argument with the official during a practice prior to the Sixers’ game against the Hobart Hurricanes on December 11 in Launceston.
Following a hearing in which Curran was found guilty of the crime, Sixers head coach Rachael Haynes declared that both the player and the team will “vigorously appeal” the punishment.
Curran ran onto a portion of the pitch during a practice run-up, but the umpire told him not to, according to Cricket Australia.
He went to the other end to finish a practice run-up, but the umpire moved to stand next to the stumps, preventing the player from getting close to the pitch.
In the video, Curran could be seen motioning for the umpire to step aside. After that, he made an attempt to practice running up and running at a fast rate in the direction of the umpire, who was facing Curran in the bowling crease, according to a statement from CA.
“The umpire stepped to his right to avoid the risk of collision.”
Brisbane Heat, Sydney Thunder, Melbourne Stars, Adelaide Strikers, and Melbourne Stars games will not include Curran.