The recent Manchester Test between England and India ended in a dramatic draw, marked by heated exchanges and a determined Indian batting display aimed at individual milestones.
Tensions Flare as Draw Looms
With the game heading for an inevitable draw, England captain Ben Stokes, known for disliking individual milestones in drawn matches, tried to call time. He approached India’s Ravindra Jadeja for a handshake, hoping to end play.
However, Jadeja refused the offer, pointing to Indian skipper Shubman Gill in the dressing room balcony. Gill appeared to enjoy his batsmen’s resolute stand, clearly wanting them to continue.
England’s Frustration Boils Over
As the Indian batsmen dug in, England resorted to unconventional tactics. Stokes handed the ball to part-time bowlers like Harry Brook, who delivered loopy full tosses and easy balls, turning the final phase into a theatrical display.
Jadeja soon reached his century, but Washington Sundar, aiming for his maiden Test ton, took his time. He defended several balls, pushing English frustration to its peak.
Sledging and Strong Words
The English players became increasingly vocal. Bowler Harry Brook was heard making a frustrated outburst, urging Sundar to “get on with it.” Pacer Jofra Archer also chipped in, suggesting Sundar should have batted faster if he wanted a hundred.
Even England’s openers joined the chorus. Zak Crawley stated, “If you shake our hands, it’s done,” while Ben Duckett sarcastically asked, “How long do you need, an hour?” Despite the pressure, the Indian batsmen calmly completed their hundreds before the teams finally shook hands.
A Moral Victory for India
Although a draw, this match felt like a significant win for India. They not only secured an unlikely draw but also visibly rattled the English squad. England’s all-out effort to win the Test proved futile against the Indian resolve.
England had seemingly put all their energy into sealing the series at Old Trafford, and their failure left them looking worried for the upcoming Oval Test.
England’s Growing Concerns
Stokes himself appeared to be struggling with multiple injuries, including a shoulder issue and hamstring strain. Furthermore, two of England’s key pacers, Brydon Carse and Chris Woakes, had played all four Tests and were in desperate need of rest.
Medical advice for Jofra Archer, returning from a long injury break, would likely caution against him playing another Test with such a short turnaround. England faced a genuine selection dilemma.
Captains’ Explanations and Expert Opinion
Stokes defended his decision to bowl part-timers, explaining he wouldn’t risk frontline bowlers in a drawn game. “All the hard work was done by India, they both played incredibly well,” he stated.
Indian captain Shubman Gill clarified his team’s stance. “It’s no less than a win for us, this draw,” he said. “Both the batsmen batted brilliantly… a Test hundred is a Test hundred and we thought they deserved a century.”
Former England player Michael Vaughan even admired India’s approach. “You earn the right to get three figures,” he commented, acknowledging India’s credit for their fight.
- India successfully delayed the game to allow two batsmen to score centuries.
- England’s frustration mounted as their attempts to end the game early failed.
- The drawn match highlighted England’s fitness concerns ahead of the next Test.
This dramatic conclusion sets the stage for a tense final match, with both teams having much to prove.
