England all-rounder Tom Curran withdraws from Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL10). After announcing the withdrawal Curran apologised to Sydney Sixers fans for his decision. He said he is feeling the fatigue after playing in biosecurity bubbles during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tom Curran Withdraws from BBL10
Tom Curran’s pull-out comes days after England teammate Tom Banton withdrew from BBL10 side Brisbane Heat for the domestic Twenty20 competition which starts Dec. 10.
“I’m really sorry not to be playing in this year’s Big Bash,” 25-year-old Curran said in a Sixers team release on Monday.
“As you’ll already know, it’s been a very challenging year and I’ve been in (bio-security) bubbles since July.
“I feel very lucky to play for the Sixers. Loved my time with you all over the last two seasons. I can promise you, this decision was not taken lightly.
“I will hopefully be back for many years to come, recharged and ready to go again, but for now I just need some time, normality, see family and be home.”
Curran, the Sixers’ top wicket-taker last season, was scheduled to join the team after Christmas after spending two weeks in quarantine upon arrival in Australia.
On Saturday, Banton cited similar reasons for his decision to withdraw from his Brisbane Heat contract for this season.
Both Curran and Banton were part of England’s white-ball squads before heading to the IPL in the UAE. They were in South Africa where COVID-19 outbreaks have disrupted England’s tour.
The Sixers support Curran’s decision
After announcing his decision Sydney Sixers shows their support for his decision ahead of the BBL10 season.
🏏 We’ve thrown our support behind @TC59 after granting him a release from his contract for @BBL|10.
TC has penned an open letter to our incredible members and fans which you can read in full here > https://t.co/kg0xy8C0LZ#smashemsixers #BBL10 pic.twitter.com/vGMpbdhIOJ
— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) December 6, 2020
“The varying conditions we are asking our players to play cricket in worldwide is taking its toll and we understand Tom’s need for a break over this BBL season,” Sixers General Manager Jodie Hawkins said.
Also read: Big Bash League 2020-21: Full schedule and Squads Details Updated