South African Legends Dale Steyn and Tabraiz Shamsi Spar on X Over India-England 4th Test Incident
🏏 India vs England 4th Test: A Draw That Sparked Heated Debate
The Manchester Test between India and England may have ended in a draw, but it left behind plenty of talking points—chief among them, a dramatic exchange involving Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja, and a rejected offer to call the game early.
While the match didn’t yield a winner, the controversial draw offer by England skipper Ben Stokes and India’s decision to bat on has divided the cricket world. What started as a moment of tactical decision-making soon evolved into a social media storm.
🗣️ Shamsi vs Steyn: A Clash of Cricketing Perspectives
South African cricketers Tabraiz Shamsi and Dale Steyn had a notable public disagreement over the incident, engaging in a thoughtful debate on X (formerly Twitter).
🗨️ Shamsi’s Stand:
“Why is there such a big deal being made about the Indians choosing not to accept the offer to end the game in a draw? They earned their 100s. Game over.”
Shamsi defended India’s decision, emphasizing player autonomy and the right to bat for personal milestones.
🗨️ Steyn’s Reply:
“Shamo, this onion has many layers… Once a draw was secured, offering a handshake is the gentlemanly thing to do. Continuing for milestones, though legal, feels… odd.”
Steyn argued the spirit of the game should take precedence once the match result was a foregone conclusion.
🔁 Follow-Up Tweets: A Balanced Exchange
The debate continued in a respectful and nuanced tone, with both players defending their views:
- Shamsi reiterated: “If you want me off the field, get me out.”
- Steyn responded: “No individual calls the shots… but once neither side can win, playing on for personal goals isn’t team cricket. That said, if we were both batting on 90, it would take a tank to pull us off!”
🧑💻 Social Media Reactions and Fan Backlash
As always, social media had its say. One user accused Steyn of “licking English boots”, referring to his support of the draw offer initiated by England.
🔥 Steyn’s Comeback:
“I’ve played the game at the highest level for almost two decades and don’t need to please anyone. If my opinion hurts your bias, that’s on you.”
🏁 What’s Next? 5th Test Incoming
The 5th and final Test between India and England begins on July 31 and is expected to be a thrilling conclusion to a closely contested series.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Ben Stokes offered an early draw; India declined and played on.
- Ravindra Jadeja and fellow batters reached centuries in the extended play.
- Steyn vs Shamsi debate highlighted differing views on the ethics of playing for milestones.
- Social media saw mixed reactions, including fan backlash against Steyn.
Also Read : R Ashwin Slams England’s ‘Double Standards’ Over Handshake Controversy In 4th Test
