England finally ended their long wait for a Test victory in Australia, but their triumph in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was overshadowed by controversy surrounding Marnus Labuschagne’s dismissal.
The flashpoint occurred during Australia’s second innings when England seamer Josh Tongue delivered a sharp ball that appeared to take a faint edge off Labuschagne’s bat. Joe Root claimed a low catch at slip, prompting loud appeals from the England fielders. Labuschagne stood his ground, clearly uncertain whether the ball had carried cleanly.
The on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire, who, after reviewing multiple angles, ruled the Australian batter out.
Television replays proved inconclusive, with some angles suggesting the ball may have brushed the turf before settling in Root’s hands.
The decision sparked an immediate backlash from Australian fans, with social media erupting in accusations of unfair play. Former England captain Michael Vaughan publicly criticised the call, tweeting that it was “NOT OUT”.
The dismissal also reignited debate around the Decision Review System in Australia, which has already come under heavy criticism during this Ashes series. Both teams have previously voiced concerns, particularly over perceived inconsistencies with the snickometer, an issue that drew widespread attention during the Adelaide Test.
Labuschagne’s wicket proved to be the catalyst for a dramatic collapse. Australia slipped from 61/2 to 88/6 in quick succession, losing wickets in tandem. Mirroring their first-innings struggles, the Baggy Greens were eventually bowled out for 132.
Only three batters reached double figures, with Travis Head top-scoring with 46, followed by Steve Smith’s 24 and Cameron Green’s 19.
Chasing a modest target of 175, England reached 178 for six to seal a four-wicket victory. Josh Tongue was named Player of the Match after claiming seven wickets across both innings.
The win marked England’s first Test victory in Australia since 2011, ending a 5,468-day drought Down Under and helping them avoid a series whitewash.
Despite England’s celebrations, the match itself raised questions about pitch preparation. The Test finished inside two days, with both sides struggling to bat on a surface many former players and fans felt was excessively bowler-friendly. Australia, however, have already retained the Ashes, leading the series 3-1.
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