Controversial Moeen Ali stumping sparks England batting collapse as Australia take control of first Test

Moeen Ali was involved in the first flashpoint of the Ashes as England were left to rue shoddy handiwork by the Gabba ground staff.

Moeen was convinced he had part of his foot in his ground after Australia wicketkeeper Tim Paine claimed a stumping, with Moeen deceived by a turning delivery from Nathan Lyon.

It looked a hugely marginal call – but after viewing several replays, TV umpire Chris Gaffaney decided that Moeen had indeed failed to ensure his foot was behind the popping crease, and Moeen was sent on his way. It ended a partnership of 42 between Moeen and Jonny Bairstow, who were starting to look comfortable against the home attack.

To add insult to injury, close-up pictures of the incident suggested the ground staff member who had painted the popping crease had not done so in a straight line. Where Moeen’s foot landed, the white line was thicker than it should have been.

Pictures were soon posted on social media to show the careless painting and former Australia captain Michael Clarke believed Moeen had been unlucky.

Clarke masterminded the 5-0 whitewash in 2013-14 and is working as a pundit for Australian television station Channel Nine during this series. “The benefit of the doubt should go the batsman,” said Clarke.