Tom Curran hit with four-match suspension for intimidating umpire in Big Bash

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

Tom Curran will miss Sydney Sixers' next four matches in the 2023/24 Big Bash 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 is understood he was warned by the fourth umpire not to run on the pitch after completing an initial run-up before moving to the opposite end of the wicket and attempting a second.

Cricket Australia said: "The umpire took position next to the stumps, blocking Curran from approaching the pitch and gestured for Curran to move away from the pitch.

^{Curran went on to take 3 for 19 and score the winning runs in Sydney Sixers' six-wicket win [Simon Sturzaker/Getty Images]}

"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."

Under the Big Bash playing conditions, only the captain and team coach are permitted to walk on the pitch prior to the start of play.

Curran, who went on to take 3 for 19 and score the winning runs in Sydney Sixers' six-wicket win, was later charged with breaching article 2.17 of the code of conduct, which relates to the "intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire, match referee or medical personnel whether by language or conduct during a match", by match referee Bob Parry.

The 28-year-old contested the charge but was found guilty, resulting in four suspension points, converted into a four-match sanction.

Curran, who taken three wickets with an economy of 5.25 in two appearances for the Sixers, is only expected to available for his side's first nine matches after signing a contract with Desert Vipers in the ILT20, which begins on January 19.

Head of Sydney Sixers, Rachael Haynes, confirmed the club would be appealing the decision: "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.

"We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field."