Eng vs Ind: Shubman Gill reveals why Ben Stokes’ “handshake” was rejected on the fifth day of the Manchester Test
Tensions have risen at Old Trafford India and the UK 4th Test It ended with a statement, not a handshake. British captain with 15 overs left on the fifth day Ben Stokes I’ve approached the Indian batter Rabindra Jadaja and Washington Sundaalsuggest an early stage of the match. This is a conventional handshake that officially settles for a draw. However, the Indians declined and continued their bat as both Jadeja and Sundar approached their personal milestones. The decision sparked widespread debate among Indian captains; Shubman Gill Explain the rationale behind not accepting handshakes.
Shubman Gill cleans the air by not accepting Ben Stokes’ handshakes
On the fifth day, both Jadeja and Sundar were on the brink of testing as India returned from nearby positions. This is a particularly important feat given the pressure and resilience needed. Feeling the inevitability of a draw, Stokes suggested that the match be finished early. Instead, Jadeja and Sundar, supported by the captain and dressing room, chose to continue batting.
In Gill’s words, the choice is “Take the wicket from the equation“The focus is on experiencing all the ball and playing the game as deep as possible. He added.They thought there was worthy of the century”.
result? Both batters reached their respective centuries, earning not only statistics but also fans’ praise for their resolve under fire. This didn’t work with Stokes or any accidental English members. Stokes was even seen ironically asking questions.Want to win 100 against Harry Brook?“When he protested and handed the ball to his part-time bowler.
Read again: WTC 2025-27: Updated points table after Eng vs Ind 4th test
The spirit of the game’s debate fires again after the controversy
The incident quickly transcended boundary ropes as past cricketers, commentators and fans gained weight. Was it the spirit of cricket that rejected an early draw that the game had already been saved? Or was it just a reward for a heroic comeback built up by two batters under severe pressure?
British critics suggested that if the role was reversed, they would accept a draw if they emphasized the spirit of Test cricket. Meanwhile, the Indian voice argued that it was about one or more people to bat for the century, especially after being subjected to “incredible pressure.” As Gill said, “Every time I walk in the country’s white people, I have some uncertainty. It tells me how much I play for the country”. For Jadeja and Sundar, reaching the triple figure was a natural conclusion to displaying resilience and national pride.
In the aftermath, a handshake, or lack of it, becomes a symbol of a wider battle between modern tradition and ambitions of the game. Driven by the second century and one rejected handshake, the Old Trafford drama lives long and long in memory as a moment when personal milestones and team spirit converge and the enduring complexity of Test cricket is exposed to debate.