The intense fourth Test between India and England may have ended in a draw, but controversy followed after the final ball was bowled.
Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn took a strong stance against Indian all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar for allegedly ignoring England captain Ben Stokes’ handshake at the end of the match.
According to Steyn, while the match was about survival and saving the game, the actions of Jadeja and Sundar showed a greater interest in personal milestones than in team goals. Both remained unbeaten—Jadeja on 90* and Sundar on 85*—as India batted out the final session to draw the game.
In a candid statement, Steyn didn’t hold back:
“The draw was the goal, not the hundred. If your team’s aim is to survive and not lose, then achieving that is the victory. Personal milestones can wait.”
In a high-pressure moment like the final day of a Test match, Dale Steyn believes it’s not just about runs—it’s about how you carry yourself. He felt the spirit of the game should come first, even before personal milestones.
While calling out the Indian batters for skipping the post-match handshake, Steyn had high praise for England captain Ben Stokes, who showed real class by offering one anyway. In Steyn’s eyes, that’s what being a true sportsman is all about.
“Ben’s a true competitor. Whether he wins or draws, he still respects the opponent,” Steyn said.
Ben Stokes, known for playing hard but always respecting the game, reached out for a handshake as the match ended. But Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar seemed to walk right past him without acknowledging it. That moment didn’t go unnoticed—and soon, fans and experts were all talking about it.
Tabraiz Shamsi did publicly comment on X (formerly Twitter) about the post-match handshake situation involving Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Ben Stokes. His remark clarifies that India chose to reject Stokes’s handshake offer, and he supported the decision.
He wrote:
“The offer was made. The offer was rejected, and they were fully entitled to make their choice. They got their 100s, which they worked hard for. Game over.”
This India vs England series has already had its fair share of heated moments—and not just with the bat and ball. From time-wasting complaints to fiery appeals and tense standoffs, the ‘spirit of the game’ has been questioned more than once.
Now, Dale Steyn’s comments have added more fuel to the fire. His take is a reminder that while cricket keeps evolving, the basic values of respect and sportsmanship shouldn’t be left behind.”
