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The Sydney Sixers‘ appeal against Tom Curran’s four-match ban has been dismissed, the BBL confirmed in a statement.
Curran was found guilty of a Level 3 offence under the governing body’s code of conduct, which related to umpire intimidation.
Footage that emerged after the ban showed Curran running in to bowl during practice with the umpire standing in his way after informing him he couldn’t run on the pitch.
The English import wasn’t deterred by the umpire’s act and almost collided with him before exchanging words with him.
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“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,” Cricket Australia’s BBL general manager Alistair Dobson said in a statement.
“We acknowledge the remorse Tom’s shown following the appeal and look forward to seeing him back in Sixers colours.
“Tom has been a long-time contributor to the BBL and is a clear fan-favourite and someone we hope will continue to play an integral role in the competition moving forward.”
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Curran now isn’t likely to play until January 3 and will miss important Boxing Day and New Years Day clashes for the Sixers.
In a statement after his appeal, Curran expressed remorse for his actions towards umpire Muhammad Qureshi.
“The interaction with umpire Qureshi took me by surprise at a time when I was very focused on my pre-match routine. I didn’t expect the stand-off that resulted,” he said.
“I deeply regret the way I reacted to it and the resultant impact for umpire Qureshi, the Sydney Sixers and myself personally.
“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.
“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.”
