Nasser Hussain condemns Ben Stokes theatrics against India in Manchester Test, following Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s courageous last stand. The fourth Test of Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy resulted in a thrilling draw at Old Trafford, with India stealing the victory away from England through a dogged batting display. While the day saw incredible resistance by India’s lower middle-order, it also saw drama surrounding England captain Ben Stokes, who demonstrated palpable frustration when Jadeja and Sundar declined his suggestion to wrap up the match prematurely.
Jadeja and Sundar Hold Fort as England Tire Out
Beginning Day 5 with momentum in the morning, England got rid of Shubman Gill and KL Rahul. But what came next punctured their hopes. Ravindra Jadeja, close to a century, and Washington Sundar, close to his first Test hundred, were solid. Their disciplined approach frustrated the hosts. Both played with discipline and refused to give up.
While the draw was on its way, Stokes extended a hand to call off the match. However, the two Indian batsmen declined the offer. They were clearly intent on their respective landmarks. Stokes retaliated by giving the ball to part-timer Harry Brook, who delivered over-the-top, near-farcical spells. Jadeja came to his fifth Test hundred in quick time, and Sundar followed two overs later with his maiden one.
Hussain Defends Indian Batters, Critiques Stokes
On Sky Cricket, ex-England skipper Nasser Hussain was not diplomatic. He defended Jadeja and Sundar and condemned Stokes’ actions.
“I didn’t mind,” Hussain explained. “The lads had sweated hard to get to the eighties. They had earned their tons. Stokes didn’t need to bowl Brook. It looked ridiculous towards the end. But we make much too much of it.
Hussain commended India’s counterattack. He quoted the 188-run partnership between Gill and Rahul that recovered the innings from a disastrous 0/2 beginning on Day 4.
India Set Up a Blockbuster Finale
Hussain credited India for staging the turnaround in tough conditions. He also spoke of the scarcity of the outcome under England’s fast-paced ‘Bazball’ approach.
“It’s just their second draw under Bazball,” he added. “And this time, rain played no part. England just couldn’t get through.”
The series now even, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion at The Oval. India’s resilience, and England’s frustration, have given the series finale new intensity.
