‘If Ben Duckett was on 90…’: Ben Stokes roasted over ‘handshake’ controversy in Manchester Test
Former Team India Player Parthiv Patel Supports Jadeja and Sundar for Rejecting Stokes’ Handshake
Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Parthiv Patel recently voiced his support for Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar for refusing Ben Stokes’ handshake during the fourth Test match in Manchester. In a thrilling turn of events, India managed to secure a draw in the final day of the Test match. The visiting team began the day at 174 for 2 and only lost two wickets throughout the day, with both Sundar and Jadeja ending the match with unbeaten centuries.
The Intense Battle on the Field
Parthiv Patel commended England for their relentless efforts to push for a win until it became clear that victory was out of reach. Patel mentioned that England’s intention was crystal clear – they wanted to bowl out India and secure a win. However, after realizing that their goal was unattainable, England eventually conceded to India’s exceptional gameplay. Both Jadeja and Sundar showcased brilliant batting skills, deserving the centuries they achieved.
“England did things their own way. Their effort was clear — they wanted to bowl India out and win the game,” said Parthiv on JioHotstar. “But when they realized that wasn’t possible, they put their weapons down and acknowledged that India had played very well.”
A Question of Fair Play
Parthiv Patel raised a thought-provoking question regarding fair play in cricket. He pondered whether England would have reacted the same way if the roles were reversed. Patel emphasized that in his opinion, the game should have continued until the end of the day, even after the Indian batters completed their centuries.
“The only question I have is this: if Ben Duckett had been batting on 90 in the same situation and the opposition offered a handshake, would England have accepted it?” Patel questioned. “In my opinion, the game should have continued till the end of the day, even if the Indian batters completed their centuries.”
India’s Grit and Determination
Reflecting on India’s performance, Parthiv Patel highlighted the team’s exceptional resilience and determination on the field. He noted that India appeared to be in a precarious position after losing early wickets, but the remarkable partnership between Jadeja and Sundar turned the tide in India’s favor.
“If 15 overs were still left, India should have batted because they worked extremely hard. From that point to batting through 143 overs is an incredible effort,” Patel remarked. “So, I believe what India did was absolutely right — though personally, I feel they could have batted a bit more.”
Looking Ahead to the Series Finale
As India prepares for the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, they have an opportunity to level the series, with England currently leading 2-1. The highly-anticipated finale will take place at The Oval, starting on Thursday, July 31, following the gripping draw in the fourth Test in Manchester.
Overall, Parthiv Patel’s insights shed light on the intense competition and sportsmanship displayed during the fourth Test match between India and England, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the series at The Oval.
The Mental Strength of Jadeja and Sundar
In addition to their exceptional batting skills, the mental fortitude displayed by Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar during the fourth Test match was commendable. Both players faced immense pressure and scrutiny throughout the game, especially when India was in a precarious position early on. However, they not only withstood the English bowling attack but also flourished under the circumstances to score centuries.
Parthiv Patel’s support for Jadeja and Sundar’s decision to reject Ben Stokes’ handshake reflects the players’ focus and determination to stay in the zone and maintain their concentration on the game. This mental toughness is a crucial aspect of elite sportsmanship, allowing athletes to perform at their best even in challenging situations.
The Spirit of Competition
Parthiv Patel’s comments on fair play in cricket bring attention to the nuances of competition and sportsmanship within the game. While cricket is a fiercely competitive sport, it also upholds values of respect and integrity. Patel’s query about how England would have reacted in a similar situation highlights the complexities of sportsmanship and raises important questions about the unwritten rules of the game.
By engaging in this discussion, Patel underscores the significance of mutual respect and fair play in cricket, emphasizing that the spirit of competition should always be upheld, regardless of the circumstances. This dialogue adds depth to the analysis of the fourth Test match and invites further reflection on the dynamics of sportsmanship in cricket.
India’s Legacy of Resilience
India’s performance in the fourth Test match exemplified the team’s legacy of resilience and perseverance. Despite facing early setbacks, the Indian team rallied together to stage an impressive comeback, with Jadeja and Sundar leading the charge with their remarkable partnership. Parthiv Patel’s acknowledgment of India’s hard work and commitment on the field underscores the team’s ability to overcome adversity and deliver exceptional performances when it matters most.
As India gears up for the series finale at The Oval, their display of grit and determination in the fourth Test sets a strong foundation for the team’s prospects in the upcoming match. The resilience shown by the Indian players not only reflects their individual skills but also their collective spirit and unity as a team, which bodes well for their chances in the final Test of the series.
The Anticipation for the Series Decider
With the series poised at 2-1 in favor of England, the fifth Test match at The Oval promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter between two formidable teams, each vying for supremacy and the chance to claim victory in the series.
As fans eagerly await the final showdown, Parthiv Patel’s insights provide valuable perspectives on the competitive dynamics and sportsmanship displayed throughout the series. The anticipation for the series decider at The Oval is palpable, with cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly looking forward to witnessing the culmination of an intense and closely contested battle between India and England.
Overall, Parthiv Patel’s analysis enriches the narrative of the fourth Test match and sets the stage for an enthralling finale, where India’s resilience and determination will be put to the test once again in their pursuit of leveling the series against England.


