Sydney Sixers skipper Moises Henrique launched a passionate defence of Tom Curran and claimed the English import is “really worried about the assassination of character”.
Curran was hit with a level-three offence under clause 2.17 — which relates to “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire” after he almost collided with an umpire prior to the Sixers’ clash against the Hobart Hurricanes.
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Damning footage was released on Thursday night that didn’t paint Curran in the greatest light, although the Sixers confirmed their intention to appeal the verdict.
Speaking prior to the Sixers’ clash against the Adelaide Strikers, Henriques was “still struggling to comprehend” why Curran was hit with a four-game ban and believes the footage available doesn’t tell the whole story.
“I’m very surprised,” Henriques told Fox Cricket.
“We obviously don’t condone any behaviour untoward toward the umpire or any umpiring staff.
“But I still can’t quite understand the decision. I also don’t have all the information at hand.
The umpire clash that saw Curran banned! | 01:03
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“I’ve known Tom for a long time, played with him at Surrey, he’s been a big part of the Sixers for a long time and I just can’t help but think we haven’t quite understood the context of the altercation. He’s a great man, he’s a real leader in the community, he’s a leader among our team.
“I’m still struggling to comprehend that sort of penalty for what he’s done.”
Henriques also doubled down on the Sixers’ desire to appeal and get Curran’s ban overturned as the skipper confirmed everyone involved at the franchise are backing the England international.
“It took 10 days to get a hearing in the first place which is very unusual anyway,” Henriques said.
“We’re definitely going to appeal. All of the players and all of our staff are behind him.
“It’s been a pretty tough time for TC this last 11 days sitting on this and knowing what he’s like. He’s taken it to heart, he’s really worried about the assassination of the character there.
“It’s a big claim, I’m wishing him the best.”
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