Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne was finally dismissed by England’s Joe Root after making an impressive 111 for the visitors. But the dismissal was almost denied by the umpire who deemed the Aussie was not out despite his bat clearly making contact with the ball before wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow pulled off a brilliant catch.
England reeled off in celebration while Labuschagne instantly acknowledged his innings was over. However, to the surprise of everyone, umpire Nitin Menon’s hand remained by his side.
The decision went to an immediate review and Labuschagne was made to walk, much to the delight of the capacity crowd at Old Trafford in Manchester. Meanwhile, Menon was booed for his underwhelming officiating.
On Twitter, the Indian official got a right earful from fans as well with supporters declaring that he had just had an “absolute shocker”.
One (@WhoFraze) wrote: “Another poor umpire decision, lucky we reviewed.” A second (@BangorAyeGaz) tweeted: “That’s an absolute shocker.”
A third (@iAMTwelly) added: “Huge wicket! Another one not given by the umpire?! Shocking again. #Ashes2023.” A fourth (@Tombrooksful2) said: “Umpire has had an absolute horror there.”
A fifth (@danlucas99) stated: “Appalling from the umpire – not for the first time – but Labuschagne should be walking there. #SameOldAussies.” As a fifth supporter (@J2Tommy) labelled the umpire a “joke”, writing: “Umpire is a joke how did he not give that out #ashes.”
The match was delayed due to rainfall with Australia 214/5 and trailing by 61. The action did not resume on Saturday evening and England are now up against it to get the five wickets they need on Sunday, when the rain is also set to affect play.
The conditions may prevent the hosts from winning the match and taking it to a decider at The Oval. If it ends in a draw, and England win the fifth Test, the holders of the urn – Australia – will still retain it.
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