High drama unfolded at Old Trafford on Day 5 of the fourth Test when England captain Ben Stokes offered India a draw, but the Indian batters, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, famously declined, opting instead to chase their individual centuries.
Stokes’ Unprecedented Offer
As the final over of play was about to commence, with a draw seemingly inevitable, England’s captain Ben Stokes approached the Indian batting pair. Ravindra Jadeja was on 89 runs and Washington Sundar on 80. Stokes extended his hand, signaling an early end to the match.
However, in a surprising move, the Indian batters chose not to accept the offer. They decided to continue batting, much to the curiosity and later, the frustration, of the English side.
Understanding the Rules of Engagement
Test cricket’s Playing Conditions (Rule 12.7.6 “Last Hour”) allow for such a scenario. On the final day, if both captains, or the batters at the wicket acting for their captain, agree that a victory is not possible for either side, they can shake hands and end the match early. This can happen once the last hour has begun or at least 15 overs remain, whichever is later.
This rule often sees teams shake hands when a draw is certain, but the Indian batters’ decision highlighted their personal milestones.
Centuries Amidst the Controversy
Shortly after the offer was refused, Ravindra Jadeja smashed a six off Harry Brook’s “loopy” bowling to bring up his second Test century. The stump mic picked up a direct question, attributed to Stokes: “Jaddu, do you want to get a Test 100 against Brook & Duckett?” Jadeja’s reply was heard: “What do you want me to do, just walk off?” Zak Crawley then added, “You can, just shake your hand.”
The English players, visibly unamused, did not applaud Jadeja’s century. Many were seen standing with folded arms, a gesture noted by commentators.
Expert Commentary and Reactions
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, on commentary, urged India to make England bat out the full 15 overs, criticizing England’s lack of applause. He also questioned why England themselves batted till 669 in their first innings if they were so concerned about time.
Eventually, Washington Sundar also reached his maiden Test century, securing his personal milestone. Following Sundar’s century, play was finally called off. Former England captain Michael Atherton, on Sky Sports, described Brook’s bowling as “farcical” but acknowledged Sundar had earned his ton.
Captains Explain Their Stances
Post-match, both captains addressed the incident. India’s stand-in captain, Shubman Gill, stated that the decision was entirely up to the batters in the middle. He supported their choice, saying, “we thought they batted brilliantly, you know, and both of them were on the 90s (actually 80s). So we thought they deserved a century there.”
Ben Stokes, visibly frustrated, explained his reasoning was purely to protect his bowlers from potential injuries with another game remaining. He highlighted that the hard work was done by India, and a draw was the only possible outcome. Stokes added that he wasn’t willing to risk his frontline bowlers, especially after Liam Dawson experienced cramping, for the final half-hour of play.
- England captain Ben Stokes offered India an early draw on Day 5.
- Indian batters Ravindra Jadeja (89*) and Washington Sundar (80*) declined, aiming for centuries.
- Both Jadeja and Sundar went on to score their centuries, sparking debate over sporting etiquette.
- Stokes cited injury prevention for his bowlers as the reason for his offer.
- India’s team management supported their batters’ decision to chase milestones.
The incident sparked a lively discussion among fans and former players about the spirit of cricket versus individual achievements in a drawn match, adding an unforgettable chapter to the Test series.
