James Graham slams “absolutely disgraceful” decision against England in second rugby league Ashes Test

Rugby league legend James Graham has slammed a refereeing decision against England in the second Ashes Test as “absolutely disgraceful”.

Graham, one of the few men to have earned a golden cap for making 50 or more international appearances, is back over in England working commentary for the BBC and he’s not shy in coming forward with opinions.

He’s now labelled a decision by referee Grant Atkins and then backed up by video referee Jack Smith as “absolutely disgraceful”, with hosts England losing their captain’s challenge as a result of it.

England winger Dom Young was carrying the ball out of yardage into a four-man tackle when the referee blew for a penalty, surprising the England team and fans.

It was immediately challenged but video referee sided with Atkins, explaining:  “Cam Munster is making the tackle and then it comes out of Dom Young’s hand onto Cam Munster’s arm which would constitute a knock on.”

James Graham, along with plenty others watching, did not agree at all.

Rugby League legend James Graham erupts over referee’s call

Reacting to Smith’s call, Graham erupted: “Are you joking? Are you joking?!

“In what level of rugby league has that ever been a knock on?

“That is disgraceful. That is absolutely disgraceful.”

Co-commentator and former rugby union and league star Jonathon Davies added his verdict, stating: “I don’t think he ever lost control of that. He changes hands and takes the hit, he doesn’t lose control of the ball at all. I think the officials got that totally wrong.”

Graham wasn’t done though as he added: “That’s a very poor decision from the match officials.”

The score at the time was 4-2 to Australia with two Nathan Cleary penalties outscoring one Harry Smith one, with the game far more competitive than the first Test at Wembley last week.

It’s been an incredibly intense affair which has been much quicker due to Atkins’ officiating, however, questions have been asked of him with the Australian sending both Dom Young and Tino Fa’asuameleaui to the sin bin for what was little more than a push and shove as they played their part in a big brawl.

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