England’s Curran banned for 4 matches

Sydney Sixers import Tom Curran has been banned for the club’s next four matches after being found guilty of intimidating an umpire.

The incident took place ahead of Sydney Sixers’ match against Hobart Hurricanes in Launceston on December 11 when Curran tried to complete a practice run-up on the pitch during the warm-up.

It's understood the fourth umpire – who is tasked with supervising the pitch during breaks in play – tried to stop Curran, which led to the Englishman being charged with a Level 3 offence under the Cricket Australia code of conduct.

CA said in a statement Curran completed an initial practice run-up where he ran onto part of the UTAS Stadium pitch before being instructed by the umpire not to run onto the pitch.

CA said Curran then moved to the opposite end of the wicket where he attempted to complete another practice run-up.

“The umpire took position next to the stumps, blocking Curran from approaching the pitch and gestured to Curran to move away from the pitch,” the statement read.

“Curran was seen in the footage gesturing to the umpire to move away from the pitch.

“Curran then attempted to perform a practice run-up and run at pace straight towards the umpire who stood in the bowling crease facing Curran. The umpire stepped to his right to avoid the risk of collision.”

Curran was subsequently 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”.

Curran contested the charge but was found guilty, with four suspension points – which equates to four BBL matches – his punishment.

The ban means the 28-year-old will miss the Sixers’ clash with Adelaide Strikers at the SCG tomorrow night, as well as matches against the Stars (December 26), Thunder (December 30) and Heat (January 1).

(with inputs from agencies)