Centuries by Sundar and Jadeja Deny England a Series Win
The fourth Test between India and England in Manchester concluded in a draw, but the final day was packed with tension and awkward moments. England, needing a win to seal the series, found themselves frustrated by the unbeaten Indian pair of Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja, both of whom scored centuries. Their defiance ensured India stayed alive in the five-match contest.
As both batters approached their hundreds, England captain Ben Stokes offered a draw, seeing no path to victory. India declined, opting to allow their players to reach personal milestones. This decision led to a noticeable shift in England’s body language and tactics.
Brook Left Hanging as Indian Duo Ignore Handshake
The tension came to a head when Harry Brook, bowling part-time overs to help close out the match, extended his hand in what appeared to be a gesture of sportsmanship after Jadeja reached his century. In a viral video, both Jadeja and Sundar are seen ignoring the gesture, leaving Brook awkwardly standing with his hand outstretched. It marked the second time during the Test that the Indian players had declined a handshake.
With no real threat of a result, England turned to Brook and Joe Root to bowl the final overs. Sundar eventually reached his century too, and the match was called off as a draw. Stokes later defended his call not to bowl frontline pacers in the dying stages, citing player workload and fitness ahead of the final Test.
