Photo Credit: Sydney Sixers
The Sydney Sixers have thrown their support behind star all-rounder Tom Curran after granting him a release from his KFC Big Bash League contract for BBL|10 to return home following England’s current tour of South Africa.
Curran, who has featured in all of England’s tour games so far, was scheduled to join the reigning BBL champs after Christmas, once he completed two weeks of hotel quarantine upon entering Australia.
The 25-year-old contacted Sixers management late last week to inform them that he was unable to fulfil his contract in the wake of an extended period under bio-security restrictions stemming from the global pandemic.
Curran thanked the Sixers for their understanding and said he was looking forward to returning to the Club for BBL|11.
Curran sent an open letter to Sixers fans, staff and players, saying he looked forward to rejoining the club next season after a well deserved break:
To Sydney Sixers fans, staff and players.
I’m really sorry not to be playing in this year’s Big Bash.
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, I have loved my time with you all over the last two seasons and 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.
Wishing the team, fans, the staff, and everyone associated with the Sixers the very best of luck for this year’s Big Bash. I’ll be following closely and cheering you on.
Take care and stay safe.
TC
After helping the Sixers to last summer’s BBL Finals with a stellar regular season, Curran travelled to South Africa for an international series, before playing in the northern summer’s limited overs Internationals against Ireland, Pakistan and Australia that were held under strict bio-security.
The Sixers’ top wicket-taker last season, Curran then joined the rescheduled Indian Premier League in late September where he played alongside Sixers teammate Steve Smith for the Rajasthan Royals while living in a two-month bio-secure ‘bubbles’ in the United Arab Emirates.
He arrived in South Africa with England shortly after the end of the IPL last month and entered another month-long bubble.
Curran made his Sixers debut during BBL|08 and re-signed with the men in magenta for three years before last season.
Sixers General Manager Jodie Hawkins said the club was supportive of Curran’s decision.
“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,” Hawkins said.
“While the hub conditions here are much less restrictive than other tournaments, the constant requirement to lock down has been tough and our number one priority is the welfare of our players.
“Tom is an integral member of the Sixers family and we just want the best for him. We look forward to seeing him here next season.”
