Tom Curran handed four-match ban in BBL for intimidating umpire

Tom Curran, the England pace bowler who is representing Sydney Sixers in the ongoing Big Bash League, has been handed a four-match ban for a level-3 offence as per Cricket Australia's code of conduct after being found guilty of intimidating an umpire. The Sixers, however, have indicated that they will "vigorously appeal" the sanction. The episode occurred before the beginning of the Sixers' past game against Hobart Typhoons in Launceston on December 11. As per CA, Curran was attempting to finish a training run-up in the pitch during the groups' pre-match drills. The fourth umpire interceded and prevented Curran from getting onto the pitch, which prompted the fight. "The umpire took position close to the stumps, impeding Curran from moving toward the pitch and motioned to Curran to create some distance from the pitch," a CA proclamation read. "Curran was found in the recording signaling to the umpire to get away from the pitch. Curran then endeavored to play out a training run-up and run at pace straight towards the umpire who remained in the bowling wrinkle confronting Curran. The umpire ventured to one side to keep away from the gamble of impact." Curran was charged under article 2.17 of the governing set of principles by match ref Bounce Repel for "terrorizing or endeavored terrorizing of an umpire, match ref or clinical staff whether by language or lead (counting motions) during a match". Curran challenged the charge yet was viewed as at fault for the offense and was given four suspension focuses, which means missing four BBL games. The Sixers later said they will pursue the authorization. "Tom and the club keep up with that Tom didn't purposely or deliberately scare a match official, and on lawful counsel, we will practice our entitlement to pursue the choice," Head of Sixers Rachael Haynes said. "We will uphold Tom during this period and anticipate him getting back to the field.