Ben Stokes has become the target of widespread criticism in India following his actions against the team last evening in Manchester.
Epic Indian Resistance Overshadowed by Ben Stokes’ Controversial Conduct
What should have been a celebration of India’s resilience—highlighted by the brilliant performances of four key players—was instead clouded by controversy, largely due to England captain Ben Stokes’ actions. When India lost two early wickets without scoring on Day 4 of the fourth Test in Manchester, England seemed poised to secure an unassailable lead and claim the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
But KL Rahul and Shubman Gill initiated a stubborn fightback, followed by Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, whose determined batting dismantled England’s Bazball approach, securing an epic draw. While draws rarely excite in India, this one resonated as a significant triumph akin to their famous Sydney 2021 effort.
However, the victory was marred by sourness when, with 90 minutes remaining, Stokes approached Jadeja and Sundar to offer a handshake and call off the game. Unaware that both were close to personal centuries, Stokes’ offer was declined, reigniting debates over the spirit of the game. Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar didn’t hold back, describing Stokes’ behavior as that of a “spoiled kid” frustrated by India’s unexpected resilience.
Manjrekar remarked on JioStar, “Ben Stokes was clearly rattled—this was the first time he faced such a draw without weather interruptions against India. India’s fight unsettled him, and his reaction showed how uncomfortable he was with the result.”
The stump microphone captured the tense exchange between Stokes, Jadeja, and other Indian players. Although it’s customary to shake hands when a draw is inevitable, India’s substantial lead and the batters’ determination to reach their milestones made it clear they intended to continue batting, underscoring the spirited nature of their fightback.
Would you have done the same thing? Manjrekar questions Ben Stokes
England had been on the field since the previous morning, with their bowlers showing little reward for their relentless effort; the team was visibly exhausted both mentally and physically. What followed after the handshake incident, however, was seen by many as a low blow. Harry Brook bowled easy, almost “lollipop” deliveries, effectively gifting Jadeja and Sundar the runs they needed to complete their centuries. This act is likely to be a source of regret for Stokes when he reflects on the moment in years to come.
Sanjay Manjrekar weighed in, saying, “The only valid argument Stokes could have had was if India had promised to shake hands 15 or 30 minutes earlier when the time came. But that didn’t happen. When India didn’t agree because their batters were close to centuries, I understand his frustration. But there was no way India was going to accept that offer.”
Manjrekar added, “Ben Stokes should have known better. Would he have done the same if two of his batters were nearing centuries while fighting hard? I doubt he would have called for a handshake under those circumstances.”