New Delhi: Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has strongly defended Team India in the wake of the so-called ‘handshake controversy’ that erupted during the Manchester Test, stating bluntly that it was Ben Stokes’ choice to offer a draw and India had every right to refuse.
The incident, which unfolded at the end of the fourth Test match in Manchester, saw Ravindra Jadeja turn down Stokes’ offer to shake hands and settle for a draw. Instead, Jadeja, alongside Washington Sundar, chose to continue batting a decision that divided the cricketing world and sparked massive online debate.
Speaking in a video shared on Reddit while reviewing the thrilling Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series which ended in a 2-2 draw after India’s six-run win in the final Test at The Oval Tendulkar firmly backed the Indian players.
“Washington scored a hundred, and Jadeja scored a hundred. Why is it not in the right spirit? They were playing for a draw,” said Tendulkar, rejecting suggestions that the Indian pair were chasing personal milestones.
He pointed out that England’s bowlers were attacking aggressively when Jadeja and Sundar came to the crease, and the Indians had to dig deep to survive and eventually take control. Tendulkar questioned the logic of ending the game early just to give England’s bowlers rest before the fifth Test.
“If England wanted to hand the ball to Harry Brook, that was Ben Stokes’ choice. It wasn’t India’s problem. Why should India give rest to the English bowlers and fielders? The series was alive!”
He further questioned critics who felt the spirit of the game was violated.
“To me, it was fine. They weren’t playing for personal scores. If they had gotten out early, we could’ve lost. Why should we make things easy for the opposition?”
The cricket icon also expressed full support for the Indian team management and leadership, including coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Shubman Gill, and the players involved in the decision.
“I am absolutely with the Indian team — be it Gambhir, Shubman, Jadeja or Washington. I’m 100% with them,” Tendulkar affirmed.
He praised Washington Sundar’s all-round performance during the series, particularly how he adapted his game to suit the situation playing a defensive role when needed and switching gears when it was time to accelerate.
“When it was time to accelerate in the last Test, Sundar did that brilliantly. And when it was needed to occupy the crease in the fourth Test, he did that as well. So, well done!”
The five-match series between India and England lived up to expectations, with each Test going down to the wire. Despite England taking an early lead, India’s comeback ensured an epic 2-2 draw making it one of the most hotly contested Test series in recent years.
Tendulkar’s strong words have added weight to the Indian camp’s stance, effectively shutting down critics who questioned the sportsmanship behind declining the handshake and continuing to play.
