On July 28, 2025, England captain Ben Stokes addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to offer an early handshake to end the fourth Test against India in a draw, despite Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar both being near centuries. Stokes explained that he prioritised the workload of his bowlers, which sparked a lively debate.
On Day 5 of the Manchester Test at Old Trafford, Ben Stokes proposed a draw as it seemed unlikely for India, who were at 360/6, to surpass England’s first innings total. Ravindra Jadeja (98) and Washington Sundar (95) declined the offer, determined to achieve their centuries. In a surprising move, Stokes handed the ball to part-timer Harry Brook, which was criticised as dismissive. Both Indian players eventually reached their hundreds, helping their team secure a draw. Stokes later praised their performance, stating, “Their partnership was massive. They saved India from a tricky situation.”
India vs England Test Match Controversy | Ben Stokes refused to shake hands with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar after they declined his draw offer during the Manchester Test. Sportsmanship or frustration? pic.twitter.com/JS8Slne5aT
— The News Drill (@thenewsdrill) July 27, 2025The Handshake Controversy Stokes’ Defence
Stokes explained his decision by stating, “Ten runs won’t change their impact. I wasn’t going to risk frontline bowlers with a short turnaround.” He highlighted the significant workload on his bowlers, including James Anderson, and prioritised their fitness for the fifth Test. He added, “When the draw was inevitable, a handshake was always going to be the outcome.” Brook bowled to minimise injury risks, with Stokes instructing him, “Don’t do anything stupid.”
India’s coach, Gautam Gambhir, responded to the criticism by stating, according to ESPNcricinfo, that “Jadeja and Sundar deserved their hundreds.” Critics on X considered Stokes’ actions unsportsmanlike, with comments such as, “Stokes disrespected their effort!” However, supporters argued that it was a pragmatic decision, given England’s 2-1 lead in the series.
India, currently trailing 1-2 in the series, must win the final Test at Kennington Oval from August 1-5 to level the series. The matchup will showcase England’s bowling strategy against India’s resilience, creating a high-stakes atmosphere. Additionally, the recent controversy may serve as extra motivation for India, especially with Jadeja’s 108 and Sundar’s 102 boosting the team’s morale, according to The Times of India.
India Vs England 4th Test Match Summary
| Team | Score | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|
| England | 477/10 | Stokes (112) |
| India | 360/6 | Jadeja (108), Sundar (102) |
| Result | Draw | Penalties: England 3/4, Spain 1/4 |
Data sources: ESPNcricinfo.
Stokes’ handshake offer sparked debate but highlighted strategic priorities. As the series heads to a thrilling finale, both teams brace for a decisive clash.
