Joe Root took a key wicket in the form of Marnus Labuschagne as England revived their hopes of forcing a series-levelling win in the fourth Test against Australia at Old Trafford.

Labuschagne, who was in fine form with two centuries in the first three Tests, was dismissed for 44 by Root’s off-spin after tea on Saturday’s rain-marred fourth day.

England were then well-placed to press home their advantage, with Australia 214-5 in their second innings, still 61 runs behind England’s first-innings 592.

Root, who was the leading run-scorer in the first innings with 189, was once again the star performer for England, taking 2-36 from 17 overs.

He also had a key role in the dismissal of Labuschagne, who edged a delivery to Jonny Bairstow behind the stumps.

The wicket of Labuschagne was a big blow to Australia, as he was their leading batsman in the series and had been in excellent form.

With Australia still trailing by 61 runs, they will need to bat well on the final day to avoid defeat.

Root’s performance was a timely reminder of his class, and he will be hoping to lead England to a series-levelling win on Sunday.