England Skipper Defends Ending Match Early, Says “10 Runs Ain’t Gonna Change the Effort” Amid Backlash Over Jadeja-Sundar Hundreds.
Ben Stokes Defends His Move Amid ‘Handshake Gate’ Debate
England captain Ben Stokes has broken his silence after being criticized for offering a premature handshake to end the 4th Test between India and England in Manchester, despite Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar closing in on personal centuries.
What Sparked the Controversy?
- With the match clearly heading toward a draw, Stokes suggested ending it early with a handshake.
- India’s Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were nearing their centuries—a rare and meaningful achievement.
- The duo declined Stokes’ offer, wanting to reach the 100-run milestone.
- Stokes then handed the ball to Harry Brook, who has no major bowling reputation, signaling a symbolic end.
Stokes Backs His Call: “The Draw Was Inevitable”
Stokes explained his rationale in the post-match press conference:
“The knock that those two played was very, very good… the 10 more runs ain’t gonna change the fact that you saved your team from a tricky situation,” he said, praising India’s lower-order resistance.
Why Did Stokes Refuse to Bowl Frontline Attackers?
According to Stokes:
- A win was no longer possible, so risking key bowlers made little sense.
- The short turnaround ahead of the final Test at the Oval meant preserving players was crucial.
- Only Harry Brook had overs left in the tank, and even he was warned not to “do anything stupid.”
Key Quotes from Ben Stokes:
- “I was never going to risk any of my frontline bowlers.”
- “As soon as it got to the point where the draw was inevitable… it was always going to be a shake hands.”
- “Getting your team out of a tricky situation is more valuable than chasing personal milestones.”
India’s Response: Gambhir Says 100s Were Deserved
While Stokes focused on the bigger team picture, others, including members from the Indian camp, took a different view.
- India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir reportedly believed both batters deserved their centuries, regardless of the match situation.
- The moment added emotional weight and talking points ahead of the series-deciding 5th Test at The Oval.
Series Situation: All Eyes on The Oval
- India trail 1-2 in the 5-match series.
- They must win the final Test at Kennington Oval to draw the series.
- The controversial end to the 4th Test has only intensified the stakes.
