Was Marnus Labuschagne Out or Not Out in 2nd Innings of Boxing Day Test?

The ongoing Ashes 2025-26 has once again reminded fans why it is one of the greatest rivalry in cricket. With the hosts dominating on home soil, the bazball cricket felt weak this time, as they only struggled to keep going. However this Ashes 2025-26, not just on-field action folded, the focus has also shifted to the umpiring decisions and the use of technology. From the opening Test to the ongoing Boxing Day Test, several moments have raised questions about the reliability and precision of the decisions made using Snicko Technology, and also about the umpiring decisions.

The trend continued at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when another incident of a controversial umpiring decision unfolded. During Australia’s second innings, Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed in a moment that quickly led to conversations and opinions on the decision. As clips circulated on social media, the discussion around Was Marnus Labuschagne Out or not Out gained momentum, putting the technology and umpiring decisions under the spotlight.

Was Marnus Labuschagne Out or Not Out?

The “was Marnus Labuschagne Out or Not Out” moment occurred in the second innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test match at the MCG ground, when Marnus Labuschagne Out was recorded following an appeal that earlier appeared uncertain. Josh Tongue eliminated Labuschagne for just 8 for the second time in the game, and this time it was almost the same. Tongue got subtle movement off the pitch with a smart, good-length delivery that was just outside off stump. While defending, Labuschagne pushed at the ball, which took a thin outside edge and carried low towards Joe Root at first slip. Root scooped the ball inches above the turf while bending sharply.

Replays shown on the big screen appeared inconclusive. The ball may have touched the ground before landing in Root's hands, according to a number of perspectives that left fans divided. However, the third umpire declared Marnus Labuschagne Out after a protracted review, citing Root's fingertips being beneath the ball at the point of contact. The dismissal also brought renewed scrutiny to the Decision Review System in Australia, which has already faced heavy criticism during this Ashes series. Both teams have previously voiced concerns, particularly around snickometer inconsistencies that drew widespread attention during the Adelaide Test.

Boxing Day Test Match

Beyond the Marnus Labuschagne Out or not out controversy, the Boxing Day Test itself has been significant for its own reasons. Played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, one of the biggest cricket stadium in the world, the match has witnessed a massive fan turnout, with around 94,000 spectators attending the match. The MCG Test has seen fierce bowling domination from both teams, even though Australia has already won the series 3-0. On Day 1, Australia dismissed England for 110 after England responded with a five-wicket haul from Josh Tongue after getting bowled out for 152.
Day 2 went according to the same plan. By lunch, Australia's lead had dropped to only 140 runs after losing six wickets in the first half. On the field, Australia continued their strong run and had the match under control with their effective batting and bowling. England, on the other hand, showed some resistance but struggled to maintain momentum. While the Boxing Day Test result seems to be in the Aussies' way, the Marnus Labuschagne Out have started another discussion around the technology, umpiring standards.