After being found responsible of intimidating an umpire, England speed bowler Tom Curran, who is currently playing Sydney Sixers in the ongoing Big Bash League, has been handed a four-match ban for a level-3 offense under Cricket Australia’s code of conduct. The Sixers, on the other hand, have stated that they will “vigorously appeal” the sentence.

On December 11, the incident occurred prior to the start of the Sixers’ previous game against the Hobart Hurricanes in Launceston. Curran was attempting to execute a practice run-up on the pitch during the teams’ pre-match routines, according to CA. The fourth umpire intervened and prevented Curran from entering the field, resulting in the confrontation.

“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 stated. “In the video, Curran is seen motioning to the umpire to move away from the pitch.” Curran then attempted a practice run-up and a fast run straight towards the umpire, who was standing in the bowling crease facing Curran. To prevent a collision, the umpire took a step to his right.”

Curran was charged by match referee Bob Parry for “intimidation or attempted intimidation of an umpire, match referee, or medical personnel whether by language or conduct (including gestures) during a match” under article 2.17 of the code of conduct. Curran challenged the accusation, but was found guilty and given four penalty points, which equates to missing four BBL games.

The Sixers later announced that they will appeal the penalty. “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,” Rachael Haynes, head of the Sixers organization, said “We will support Tom during this period and look forward to him returning to the field.”