Tendulkar Backs Jadeja and Sundar After ‘Draw Offer’ Drama in 4th Test Against England.
Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has spoken out strongly on the Ben Stokes-Ravindra Jadeja handshake controversy during the recently concluded India vs England Test series, defending the Indian players’ decision to continue playing despite Stokes’ offer to settle for a draw.
The heated debate erupted after the 4th Test in Manchester, where Jadeja declined a handshake from Ben Stokes, signaling India’s intent to keep playing despite the match nearing a draw.
Series Recap: A Tightly Fought Battle
- The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy ended 2-2, with India clinching a thrilling 6-run win at The Oval.
- The 5-Test series was full of drama, high-intensity cricket, and close finishes across all five matches.
- However, it was the handshake drama at Manchester that became one of the series’ biggest talking points online.
What Was the Handshake Controversy?
- As the 4th Test neared a draw, England captain Ben Stokes offered a handshake, suggesting both teams agree to end the match.
- But Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar chose to continue batting.
- This sparked criticism and debate, with some ex-cricketers calling the decision unsporting.
Tendulkar Responds: “It Was England’s Problem, Not India’s”
Speaking in a video shared on Reddit, Tendulkar made it clear where he stood:
“Washington scored a hundred, and Jadeja scored a hundred. Why is it not in the right spirit? They were playing for a draw. The series was alive. Why should they shake hands early and let England rest?” said Tendulkar.
He went on to question England’s tactical move:
“If England wanted to give the ball to Harry Brook, that was Ben Stokes’ choice. Not India’s problem.”
Why Tendulkar Backed India’s Decision
- Jadeja and Sundar had every right to play on, especially with the match and series still active.
- Tendulkar emphasized the importance of strategy, mental toughness, and match awareness.
- He added that Sundar’s acceleration in the 5th Test proved that India was playing smart cricket.
Final Word From the Master Blaster
“I’m 100% with the Indian team—Gambhir, Shubman, Jadeja, Sundar. They played the situation perfectly. When needed, they occupied the crease; when needed, they attacked.”
Summary of Key Points:
- Sachin Tendulkar supported India’s decision to reject Ben Stokes’ handshake offer.
- He defended Jadeja and Sundar for continuing to bat in the 4th Test.
- Tendulkar called out the logic behind England wanting fresh bowlers for the final match.
- He praised the Indian team’s strategic play and competitive spirit.
Also Read : Gautam Gambhir’s Emotional Outburst Goes Viral After India’s Historic Win Over England
