Curran 'deeply regrets' BBL referee incident

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Cricket Australia found Curran involved in disagreement with umpire during warm-up before Big Match bash against the Hobart Hurricanes.

The 28-year-old English player lost his appeal against his sanction.

"I've had a lot of time to think about my actions and the incident," Curran said.

"My preparation for each match is deeply methodical and my concentration is intense during warm-ups.

"Part of my preparation is to run a course and evaluate my swing on that particular surface. I did it before every match and for me it's part of my routine for every match.

"The interaction with referee Muhammad Qureshi surprised me at a time when I was very focused on my pre-match routine. I did not expect the resulting stalemate.

"I deeply regret the way I reacted and the resulting impact on referee Qureshi , the Sydney Sixers and myself personally."

When preparing for the December 11 match, the fourth official - responsible for supervising the pitch - asked Curran not to run on the pitch.

But CA Code of Conduct Commissioner Adrian Anderson found that Curran then “attempted to carry out a preparatory practice and ran straight towards the umpire, who was standing in the bowling crease facing Curran. The referee moved to his right to avoid any risk of collision."

The incident been considered “intimidation or attempted intimidation of a referee or match official” under the CA Code.

According to BBL rules, only the team captain and coach are allowed to walk on the field to assess its condition before the start of play, with cleats also prohibited before the match.

"My intention was always to veer to the right of referee Qureshi, similarly way than when I ran to the other end," Curran added.

"I didn't have never considered meeting him and never thought he would think that was my intention.

"However, upon reflection, I should have repositioned my run about a meter to my left. I wouldn't do the same thing if the situation happened again, and I'm sorry."

Curran a said he was looking forward to returning to action for the Sixers on January 3 against Brisbane Heat after his appeal was rejected.

"Umpires are part of the lifeblood of cricket,” said Alistair Dobson, chief executive of the CA BBL.

"It is essential that they are respected and appreciated by players at all levels of the game. < /p>

"We recognize Tom's remorse following the appeal and look forward to seeing him back in action of the Sixers.

"Tom is a long-time contributor to the BBL and is clearly a fan favorite and someone that We Hope will continue to play a vital role in the upcoming competition."