The final day of the Manchester Test between India and England saw high drama, with England captain Ben Stokes clashing verbally with Indian batsmen Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar after they refused his offer of a draw.
Tensions Rise in Manchester
The fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar series, which ultimately ended in a draw, witnessed an unexpected confrontation. With just an hour of play remaining, England skipper Ben Stokes approached Indian batsmen Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar.
Stokes extended a handshake, signaling his intention to declare the match a draw. However, to his surprise, both Jadeja and Sundar declined the offer, choosing to continue batting in pursuit of their individual centuries.
This refusal quickly escalated into a heated verbal exchange between Stokes, his teammates, and the Indian batsmen. Despite the tension, Jadeja and Sundar remained at the crease, successfully reaching their milestones before finally agreeing to the draw five overs later.
Manjrekar Brands Stokes a “Spoiled Kid”
The dramatic incident drew strong criticism from former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar. Speaking on the post-match show, Manjrekar didn’t hold back, labeling Ben Stokes’ behavior as that of a “spoiled kid.”
Manjrekar suggested that while Stokes’ frustration was understandable, his reaction was disproportionate. He emphasized that the England captain, whom he generally admires, should have handled the situation with more grace, acknowledging that not everything would go according to his plan.
Crucial Centuries for India
Amidst the controversy, the performances of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were pivotal. They forged an unbeaten 203-run partnership for the fifth wicket, which was crucial for India’s aspirations in the series, with England still leading 2-1.
For Jadeja, this was his fifth Test hundred, a significant achievement in his career. Washington Sundar’s knock of 101 runs was particularly special, marking his maiden Test century on the international stage.
The English Perspective: Jonathan Trott’s View
Former England cricketer Jonathan Trott offered insight into the English team’s mentality regarding such situations. He stated that it’s common practice in England to accept an early draw offer, prioritizing the game’s outcome over individual milestones.
Trott suggested that if the roles were reversed, an English batsman would likely have accepted Shubman Gill’s handshake. He highlighted a “code and ethos” in Test cricket, implying a mutual respect where such offers are typically taken, regardless of personal scores.
Stokes Defends His Decision
Ben Stokes himself later clarified his rationale for offering the draw. He explained to the BBC that his primary concern was to protect his frontline bowlers from further exertion.
With only one result left on the table (a draw) and a quick turnaround before the next match, Stokes deemed it unnecessary to risk his key bowlers. His decision, he stated, was a strategic one aimed at player welfare rather than a lack of competitive spirit.
- Ben Stokes offered a draw to Indian batsmen Jadeja and Sundar with an hour left in the Manchester Test.
- Jadeja and Sundar refused, opting to complete their centuries, leading to a verbal spat.
- Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar criticized Stokes’ reaction, calling him a “spoiled kid.”
- Both Jadeja and Sundar achieved significant milestones, scoring unbeaten centuries.
- Former England cricketer Jonathan Trott suggested English players would have accepted the draw in a similar situation.
- Stokes defended his offer, citing the need to protect his bowlers.
The incident ignited a debate about sportsmanship, personal milestones, and team strategy in Test cricket, leaving fans and pundits divided on who was in the right.
