IND vs ENG 4th Test: Ben Stokes Ignored as Jadeja, Sundar Reject Handshake Offer to Bat On for Centuries: WATCH

IND vs ENG 4th Test: In a gripping finale to the fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford, a rare moment of on-field drama unfolded when England skipper Ben Stokes walked up to Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar with an offer to settle the match as a draw.

However, in a move that sparked a mix of admiration and debate, the Indian duo politely declined, choosing instead to continue their innings - a decision that caught Stokes off guard.

With the match heading toward an inevitable draw, Stokes appeared to gesture for an early handshake during a brief pause in play. The context was clear: England, already 2-1 up in the five-match series, were just days away from the decisive fifth Test and conserving energy for his bowlers seemed logical. But Jadeja and Sundar had other priorities - both were within touching distance of personal milestones.

The pair, who had already frustrated England with a resilient century stand, chose to bat on. Jadeja was in the 90s, and Sundar was not far behind. Their refusal wasn't merely about reaching three figures - it was a calculated move to extend England's toil under the sun, subtly shifting momentum in India's favour ahead of the final Test. Cameras caught a clearly bemused Stokes walking away, shaking his head in disbelief.

Critics may argue that pushing on in a dead rubber for individual accolades goes against the spirit of the game. But others lauded the decision as well within the bounds of Test cricket's unwritten rules - especially given the context. India had clawed their way back from a 311-run deficit, and Jadeja and Sundar had earned the right to finish the job on their own terms.

Eventually, both reached their centuries, and India ended the match on 425/4 - a symbolic win in the form of a draw. The brief moment of tension only added to the theatre of what has been a closely fought series, setting the stage perfectly for the series decider.