On the auction day of IPL 2024, December 19, Royal Challengers Bangalore got the services of England bowler Tom Curran for INR 1.5 Crore. But just two days after the auction, the RCB bowler found himself in a problem as he was imposed with a four-match ban as he tried to intimidate the on-field umpire.
On December 11, Curran became embroiled in controversy. The Sydney Sixers player was part of an incident with an umpire as he was attempting his pre-match practice run-ups on the pitch. Consequently, he faced a charge of intimidation against the umpire, a grave Level 3 offense according to Cricket Australia’s code of conduct.
“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,” said CA in a statement.
The matches Curran will miss due to his four-match suspension are scheduled from December 26th to January 1st. This absence represents a substantial period for the all-rounder, who had limited availability throughout the season.
The Sydney Sixers Head Rachael Haynes also talked about this and said, “Tom and the club maintain that Tom did not knowingly or intentionally intimidate a match official, and on legal advice, we will exercise our right to appeal the decision,” Haynes said.
“We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field.”
