Ashes 2023 [WATCH]: Mitchell Starc catch controversially ruled not out; Aussie legends left fuming

In a highly controversial moment during the fourth day of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s, Mitchell Starc was denied a catch that could have given Australia their fifth wicket before stumps. The incident left Starc and his teammates bewildered, but the umpires ultimately made the correct decision.

As the day neared its end, Australia inched closer to a 2-0 series lead, and it appeared they had claimed another wicket when Starc took a fantastic running and diving catch at fine leg off Ben Duckett. However, upon review, it was determined that Starc had touched the ball to the ground while cushioning his fall with his left hand, leading the TV umpire Marais Erasmus to overturn the decision.

Starc, along with captain Pat Cummins, sought an explanation from the umpires, and the incident ignited frustration among the Australian camp.

Here’s the video:

Well then…

What do we think of this one? 👀

Cleary grounded 😉 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/bPHQbw81dl

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 1, 2023

Even Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath expressed his disappointment, unleashing his criticism on BBC’s Test Match Special radio program.

“I’m sorry that’s the biggest load of rubbish I’ve ever seen. That ball is under control,” McGrath said.

“I’ve seen everything this game has to offer. If that is not out then every other catch that’s ever been taken should not be out. That is a disgrace.”

His long-time teammate Ricky Ponting vented his frustration while on commentary duty for Sky Spots.

“I must admit, I’m a little bit confused. Where are they judging when and how the ball is under control?”

Aaron Finch, former Australia captain and commentator for Channel Nine, labeled it a shocking decision.

“For a guy who’s six-foot five to make good ground like that, get your hands around it, slide on your knees and get up in one motion, I’d say that you’re pretty well in control of your body,” Finch argued.

This controversy comes just two days after Erasmus was involved in another contentious catch call, where he ruled in favour of Steve Smith, allowing him to dismiss Joe Root with a catch that raised questions about whether the ball had been cleanly taken.

With Duckett being given a reprieve, England will rely on him to capitalize on his let-off. He remained unbeaten on 50 as the hosts faced the challenging task of chasing 371 runs for victory, which would be the highest-ever successful run chase at Lord’s.

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July 02, 2023 at 10:00AM