Joe Root’s controversial catch sparks huge ‘cheating’ debate after England win 4th Ashes Test at MCG

England’s victory in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was overshadowed by a major controversy involving Joe Root’s catch that led to the dismissal of Marnus Labuschagne. The incident has triggered a fresh debate, with many fans and experts questioning the decision, while some are calling Root a “cheat.”

The controversy happened on Day 2 of the Test during Australia’s second innings. In the 18th over, England fast bowler Josh Tongue bowled a delivery that took a faint edge off Labuschagne’s bat. The ball travelled quickly to the slip cordon, where Joe Root claimed a low catch.

While the England players appealed loudly, Labuschagne stood his ground, clearly unsure whether the ball had carried cleanly. The on-field umpire decided to refer the decision to the third umpire. After checking several replay angles, the third umpire ruled Labuschagne out.

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Labuschagne looked visibly frustrated as he walked back to the pavilion. Replays on television appeared inconclusive, with some angles suggesting the ball may have brushed the grass before settling in Root’s hands. Australian fans immediately took to social media, accusing England of cheating.

What did you make of this catch? Out or not out?#Ashes | #DRSChallenge | @Westpac pic.twitter.com/pnWo2qt6qc

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2025

You’d think Joe Root would be happier. Can only put it down to the lingering guilt he would be feeling about claiming that grounded catch. #Ashes

— Will (@WillStoneham1) December 27, 2025

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Just to be clear, and I do not care either way. Joe Root did not catch that ball. #ashes

— Matthew Bender (@SuchRubbish) December 27, 2025

Joe root claiming a catch which smashed into the turf.

— ADT (@ADTBLUE3) December 27, 2025

Marnus has not been batting well but I mean come on with that he's been shafted there. Just like Joe Root did in 2019 Ashes to him - seemingly Root can catch balls that bounce???

— . (@sbmx33) December 27, 2025

Joe Root, cheating again, claiming catches that bounced. Not to mention third umpire cheating for England, allowing wickets from no balls. England, once a cheat, always a cheat. Moral Victory Australia, England murder the spirit of cricket. The Poms have taught me how to whinge.

— Bolic (@cranberries3136) December 27, 2025

England avoid Ashes whitewash

While the debate over the catch continued, England went on to complete a historic win. Chasing a modest target of 175 runs, England reached 178 for six to seal a four-wicket victory. Josh Tongue was named Player of the Match after taking seven wickets across both innings.

The win was significant for England, as it marked their first Test victory in Australia since 2011. England finally tasted success Down Under after 5,468 days and avoided a series whitewash. The scoreline is now 3-1, but still in favour of Australia, who have already retained the Ashes.

The MCG pitch also came under heavy criticism. The match finished inside two days, with both teams struggling to bat. Australia were bowled out for 152 and 132, while England managed just 110 in their first innings. Many former players and fans felt the pitch was too bowler-friendly and did not provide a fair contest between bat and ball.