From Bazball To Begball, Fans Support Indian Team For Refusing Ben Stokes’ Handshake

The recently concluded fourth Test at Old Trafford between England and India was a gripping contest that ultimately ended in a draw, yet it delivered moments of quiet defiance and psychological edge. With England leading the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series by 2-1, this Test had little space for outright results on the final day, yet it brimmed with tension. India, trailing in the series, found salvation in a resilient partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar.

The pair batted through the final day, steering the visitors to a secure position at 386 for 4 with 15 overs remaining. Though the match was destined for a draw, what unfolded in those final minutes revealed far more than the scorecard.

In an unexpected turn of events, the England captain Ben Stokes approached the Indian duo with an offer to draw the match early. With both the batters nearing personal milestones, Jadeja on 89 and Sundar on 80, the Indian camp declined the handshake and chose to continue. Their decision was not rooted in stubbornness but a belief that the innings deserved closure on their terms, with centuries to crown their effort. The batters reached their respective hundreds within the next few overs before finally agreeing to the draw, triggering a mixture of admiration and ire among fans.

Ben Stokes, perhaps irked by the rejection, was caught engaging in sledging, reportedly asking Ravindra Jadeja whether he truly wanted to complete his century against Harry Brook, a part-time bowler brought in to expedite the formalities. Brook delivered gentle, unchallenging balls but the stump mic caught a different kind of aggression, as expletives were allegedly directed at Washington Sundar. Despite these provocation attempts, the Indian pair stayed composed, choosing class over confrontation.

The incident sparked strong reactions from Indian fans across social media. Many condemned the English side for their perceived double standards regarding the so-called “spirit of the game”. While some accused them of entitlement and hypocrisy, others pointed out the stark contrast between their own players’ restraint and England’s on-field conduct. One user remarked that such moments strip away the romanticism of “Bazball”, revealing instead an unpleasant arrogance, while another praised Jadeja and Sundar for their poise under pressure.

Here are some reactions:

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This draw was only the second under Ben Stokes’ leadership and notably the first one in a full-length match unaffected by weather. Throughout the episode, the Indian captain Shubman Gill maintained a calm demeanor. Cameras captured his impassive face during the exchange and he echoed fan sentiments during the presentation. In his words, Jadeja and Sundar had earned those centuries and there was no reason to walk away before completing them.

In a game without a winner, India walked away with pride intact and their credibility reinforced. Jadeja and Sundar’s 203-run partnership not only helped secure the draw but also kept the series alive, setting the stage for a fiery finale. Their decision to play on was more than a bid for personal glory, it was a message about grit, grace and refusing to bow under pressure.

Well played, India!

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