Ben Stokes Responds to Handshake Controversy After India Secure Draw in Fourth Test

Manchester — England Test captain Ben Stokes has addressed the growing controversy surrounding the post-match handshake following the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, where Indian batters Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar opted to continue batting instead of accepting a draw, despite being in a safe position.

The drama unfolded on the final day when India, having recovered from a massive 311-run deficit, looked out of danger. Reports suggest that Stokes informally offered a draw, but with Jadeja and Sundar both in the 90s, the Indian duo chose to bat on in pursuit of personal milestones.

Footage circulating on social media appeared to show Stokes shaking hands with several Indian players but notably skipping Jadeja, fuelling speculation that the England captain was unhappy with India’s decision to decline the draw offer. A brief verbal exchange between the two players added further intrigue.

Critics claimed the move by the Indian batters breached the “spirit of cricket”, sparking a wave of commentary from former players and fans. Others defended the decision, saying the batters were well within their rights to continue.

At the post-match press conference, Stokes attempted to downplay the situation. “Jadeja and Sundar played brilliant innings. We pushed as hard as we could for a result, but when that became unrealistic, I chose not to over-bowl my main fast bowlers,” he explained.

He added, “Whether you’re 10 runs short of a hundred or not, what really matters is taking your team out of trouble. That’s the real achievement.”

Stokes’ use of part-time bowler Harry Brook in the final overs was seen as a sign that England had accepted the draw. Some critics, however, viewed it as premature and lacking intent. Stokes defended the decision, pointing to player workload management ahead of the series-deciding fifth Test at The Oval, starting July 31.

The cricketing world remains divided. Former South African pacer Dale Steyn weighed in on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “This onion has many layers to it, and each one will make someone cry. While legal, batting for personal milestones after achieving a draw felt off.” He also questioned why the Indian pair didn’t accelerate earlier.

Conversely, South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi supported the Indian players, tweeting, “Both teams have the right to play how they see fit. If you want me out, get me out!”

Jadeja (107*) and Sundar (101*) shared a resilient 203-run stand after India found themselves at 0-2 early in the innings. Their efforts not only helped India avoid defeat but also kept the five-match series alive, with England leading 2-1.

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Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir praised the batters, stating, “They fully deserved their centuries. Personal milestones should not be undervalued when they come within the rules.”

With tensions high and both teams under pressure, the final Test at The Oval promises a dramatic finish to an already thrilling series.