Hussain criticizes Stokes as India snubs Bazball
Nasser Hussain, the former England skipper, spoke out strongly against Ben Stokes’ decision to prematurely offer a draw in the fourth Test against India. As Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar battled hard with the bat on Day 5, nearing individual centuries, Stokes approached them with a handshake to call off the game.
Jadeja was on 96 and Sundar on 87 when the offer was made. Both Indian players, determined to complete their milestones, rejected the gesture. In a surprising move, Stokes handed the ball to part-time bowler Harry Brook, who delivered lighthearted overs. Jadeja reached his fifth Test century quickly, followed by Sundar’s maiden hundred.
Indian batters frustrate England with gritty stand
The draw came after England looked threatening early on Day 5, removing Shubman Gill and KL Rahul soon after their 188-run partnership. But Jadeja and Sundar defied expectations, putting up a strong stand that took the match out of England’s control and kept the series alive.
Despite the pressure, the Indian duo held firm. Their patient approach not only secured the draw but also showcased the value of resilience against England’s attacking Bazball strategy.
Hussain defends Jadeja and Sundar’s decision
Speaking to Sky Cricket, Hussain showed complete support for Jadeja and Sundar. He said both batters earned the right to reach their centuries and deserved to finish the match on their terms.
“I didn’t have a problem. The two lads worked hard. They wanted Test match hundreds. They played well, they deserved to be there at the end,” Hussain said, adding that England looked tired and frustrated.
India earns rare draw in Bazball era
This was only the second draw for England under the Bazball regime, the first also coming at Old Trafford due to rain. Hussain credited India for securing the result purely through performance, praising their fightback after a disastrous start at 0/2 in the second innings.
With the match ending in a draw, the series now heads to The Oval with everything to play for. The intense exchange has added more flavor to an already heated rivalry.
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