The fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford concluded in a draw, but not without sparking controversy regarding Ben Stokes's conduct and a perceived breach of sportsmanship. With India in a comfortable position on the final day, leading by 75 runs with six wickets in hand, Stokes offered a handshake to signal an end to the match, a proposition that was declined by Indian batsmen Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar.

Both Jadeja and Sundar were on the cusp of centuries, adding a layer of ambition to their refusal. Jadeja was at 89 not out, seeking his fifth Test century, while Sundar was nearing his maiden Test ton at 80 not out. This decision to continue batting, with personal milestones within reach, seemed to frustrate Stokes and other members of the English team.

Stokes's offer came as England's bowlers were visibly fatigued after a gruelingmatch, and with the final Test looming in just three days. Stokes stated that his primary concern was to protect his key bowlers from potential injuries, given the short turnaround and the workload they had endured throughout the series. He clarified that he wasn't prepared to risk any of his frontline bowlers in a situation where a draw seemed inevitable.

The refusal of the handshake led to visible frustration from Stokes, who was seen shaking his head in apparent disbelief. Reports suggest that there was a verbal exchange between Stokes and Jadeja, with Stokes allegedly asking if Jadeja wanted to score a century off Harry Brook. Jadeja reportedly responded, "I can't do anything". Jadeja eventually reached his century with a six off Brook. Sundar also achieved his century later.

Shubman Gill, India's captain, defended the decision to decline the handshake, emphasizing that both batsmen deserved to reach their centuries. Gill noted that the team wanted to take it "ball by ball" and bat deep.

Stokes later explained his perspective, stating, "All the hard work was done by India and there was only one result." He reiterated that he didn't want to risk his fast bowlers with any injuries towards the end. He acknowledged the effort and energy expended by the bowling department and the need to assess their condition.

Some observers have criticized Stokes's behavior, suggesting it was against the spirit of the game. Former England player Jonnathan Trott alluded to this when Brook was bowling half-volleys to Jadeja, who was able to capitalize and reach his century. However, others have pointed out that India's decision was not unsporting but assertive, with a focus on personal milestones and wearing down the English team ahead of the final Test.

Ultimately, the handshake controversy highlights the tensions that can arise in high-stakes cricket matches, where team strategy, individual ambition, and the spirit of the game can clash. While Stokes's frustration was evident, his explanation regarding player welfare and workload management provides context to his actions. India's response, driven by the desire for personal milestones, added another layer to the narrative, resulting in a memorable, if somewhat awkward, conclusion to the fourth Test.