England all-rounder Tom Curran has become the latest English star to pull out of the upcoming 10th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2020-21 citing “bubble fatigue.”
Last week, England and Brisbane Heat batsman Tom Banton had withdrawn from the BBL 10 and now Curran joined his national teammate citing a similar reason. The all-rounder was to turn out for the Sydney Sixers in the BBL 2020-21 in Australia after completing the ongoing South Africa tour.
Curran and Banton both have been in bio-secure bubbles since the cricketing action resumed in July 2020 after Coronavirus-forced hiatus, as they were part of England's white-ball squads before heading to the IPL 2020 and now in South Africa for the limited-overs series.
Read Also: Brisbane Heat's Tom Banton withdraws from BBL 10 due to "bubble fatigue"
Having become fatigued with staying in bio-security bubbles during the COVID-19 pandemic, Curran has decided to pull out of the Australian T20 league starting December 10 in order to spend time with his family, saying he was craving some time with the family after a challenging time in strict bio-bubbles.
Curran said in an open letter to the Sydney Sixers fans: “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 bubbles since July.”
The all-rounder further added, “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.”
The 25-year-old was due to return to Sydney after Christmas, facing another two weeks of isolation in the hotel before he could rejoin the team.
Meanwhile, Sixers' general manager Jodie Hawkins said the club supported the decision of their top wicket-taker of the last season.
Hawkins further stated, “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.”
(With AFP/IANS Inputs)
