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New Delhi: The Manchester Test didn't end without its share of drama in the final hour of play, as Indian batters Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar turned down England captain Ben Stokes’ offer to call off the fourth Test and settle for a draw. As per the rules, both captains can agree to a draw by mutual consent if they believe there's no possibility of a result.
Jadeja and Sundar, who had battled hard to pull India out of trouble, were unbeaten on 89 and 80 respectively. With their sights set on personal milestones, the duo declined Stokes’ offer after he approached the umpires, choosing instead to continue batting and reach their centuries.
Stoke didn't like it and said a few words to Jadeja and the Indian all-rounder didn't shy away from giving a blunt reply. He said, "Do you want to score a hundred against Harry Brook?" and all Jadeja said was "I can't do anything."
Jadeja maintained his composure and kept batting because as per rules India had the right to carry on batting. In what appeared to be a clear show of dissent, Ben Stokes tossed the ball to part-timer Harry Brook and Ravindra Jadeja wasted no time in sending him over the ropes to notch up his third Test century but what followed made headlines for the wrong reasons.
Frustration seemed to get the better of England as their bowlers began delivering exaggerated full-tosses often called “donkey drops” as a symbolic protest. Brook continued to dish out easy deliveries to both Jadeja and Washington Sundar, seemingly disapproving of India's decision to play on despite an informal draw offer from Stokes.
Eventually, once Jadeja had completed his hundred and Sundar reached his maiden Test century, the match ended in a handshake between the teams but the moments have left the mark.
The move by Stokes was criticised by many but when he was asked about the same he was of the opinion that since a result was out of question he wasn't willing to risk his frontline bowlers with the short turnaround.
Interestingly, this was only the second time England have been involved in a draw in their 40-Test stretch under the Bazball philosophy. The last instance also came at Old Trafford during the 2023 Ashes, when rain played spoil-sport.
The draw in Manchester not only kept the series alive for India but also reminded everyone that Test cricket, even in its most aggressive era still has space for patient batting, individual milestones and a bit of good old drama.
