Tom Curran opts out of Big Bash League

The Sydney Sixers man joins Jonny Bairstow and Tom Banton in withdrawing from the competition

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Sydney Sixers will be without Tom Curran for the upcoming Big Bash League after the England seamer was released from his contract for the competition.

The Surrey man, currently in South Africa with his country, was due to fly to Australia this week.

Curran would have had to undergo 14 days of quarantine upon his arrival before being permitted to play in the 10th edition of the BBL.

But having been in bio-secure bubbles for much of the second half of the year, the 25-year-old has taken the decision to return home.

"As you’ll already know, it’s been a very challenging year and I’ve been in bubbles since July," he said in an open letter to supporters.

"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."

Huge thank you to everyone @SixersBBL for being so understanding. I’m gutted I’m not going to be able to be there with you all this year but I will be following and supporting all the way ❤️🙏🏼 https://t.co/70FFU1kKvA

— Tom Curran (@TC59) December 7, 2020

Across two seasons with Sixers, Curran has scored 318 runs and taken 42 wickets in 28 matches. He was part of the team which scooped the title in 2019-20 and hopes to return for a third campaign next season.

He becomes the second England player to withdraw from the BBL citing the desire to rest following a gruelling year in bio-secure bubbles, following Tom Banton's decision not to return to Brisbane Heat. Jonny Bairstow has also pulled out of his contract with Melbourne Stars as a Test recall beckons.

General manager Jodie Hawkins added: "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.

"While the hub conditions here are much less restrictive than other tournaments, the constant requirement to lockdown 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."

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