Shubman Gill, the Indian captain, disclosed that Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were the ones who chose not to accept Ben Stokes’ offer to draw the match by shaking hands. With just 15 overs remaining on Day 5 of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Stokes approached the Indian batters, suggesting a mutual decision to end the game.
However, both Jadeja and Sundar were nearing their respective hundreds and felt it was worth continuing. Their decision proved right as they went on to complete their centuries, contributing significantly to India’s strong position. Stokes’ offer wasn’t taken up, and the play went on despite some conversations from the England camp questioning the call.
Team Mentality and Learnings Shared by Gill
“Extremely pleased with the batting effort. Past couple of days we were put under tremendous pressure. It’s all about taking the wicket out of the equation. Day 5 wicket, something is happening, every ball is an event. Wanted to take it ball by ball and take it deep, which is what we spoke about.”
Shubman Gill praised the determination shown by the team. He noted that the decision to keep batting stemmed from the belief that both players “deserved a century.” He reflected on how every match going into the last session was a learning opportunity for the team.
“We thought they deserved a century there (about the decision to not shake hands). Every match going till the last session on the last day. Plenty of learnings. Has taught us a lot as a group. Doesn’t matter how many runs you’ve scored in the past. Every time you walk wearing the whites of the country, there are some jitters. That tells how much I care playing for the country.”
Batting Performance and Jadeja’s Graceful Reply
Gill also evaluated the team’s innings by saying that while the first innings saw many players getting set, they failed to convert starts into big scores. In contrast, the second innings was more disciplined.
“In the first innings, we did post a good total. But a lot of our batters did get set. Important on these wickets for set batters to go deep. Unfortunately it didn’t happen. But pleased with the way we were able to do that in the second innings. Will have to wait and see (about Bumrah).”
“As long as we’re winning the match (at the Oval), don’t care about the toss.” Meanwhile, Ben Stokes asked sarcastically, “Do you want to score a hundred against Harry Brook?” To which Jadeja calmly replied, “I can’t do anything.” He then went on to smash Brook for a six to complete his hundred, showing poise and determination.
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