Gautam Gambhir Blasts England over Handshake Controversy

CricDiary Desk: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has steadfastly backed his team’s decision to decline England’s offer for a premature draw on the last day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford yesterday. With 15 overs remaining, England captain Ben Stokes offered to shake hands and settle for a draw, only to be turned down by batters Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Both were approaching three-digit scores.

Gambhir, in the post-match Press conference, posed a counter‑question to critics: “If someone is batting on 90 and another on 85, don’t they deserve centuries? Would England have walked off if their own players were in that position? Absolutely not.”

He added: “Our boys weathered the storm. They earned the tons. We’re not here to please anyone.” Gambhir was unapologetic and defiant during the Pres conference.

India captain Shubman Gill, meanwhile, praised the approach stating that Jadeja and Sundar rightly earned the opportunity to reach their milestones.

The Test eventually ended in a draw. Jadeja and Sundar remained unbeaten on 107 and 101 respectively.

England, after the centuries were achieved, visibly reacted with frustration. Stokes halted applause, and tense on-field exchanges occurred. Traditional decorum gave way to competitive edge.