The last hour of the 4th Test between India and England sparked a debate when India refused to end the game early with a handshake. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar were on the cusp of centuries and chose not to accept England’s offer. After both got their centuries, the teams shook hands.
Many former players have commented on India’s decision and most have supported it. Ajay Jadeja, former India stand-in captain also supported Jadeja and Sundar. On Sony Sports Network, the commentator shared a story, he once refused a handshake so he could continue batting in his comeback Test but missed his century.
Jadeja said when an offer is made, the choice is yours to make and no one can judge whether the response is right or wrong. He said Ravindra and Sundar had every right to do what they did, he would have done the same if he were in their position and mentioned a similar experience in Antigua during his comeback Test. He refused to shake hands then but was unfortunately run out at 96. He said when given a choice you are entitled to use it.
Jadeja referred to a Test match against West Indies where the first three days were washed out. West Indies scored 333 in 110.3 overs. Jadeja and VVS Laxman added 97 for the first wicket and then 101 for the second wicket between Jadeja and Rahul Dravid. Jadeja was run out for 96 and never scored a Test century.
Sundar and Jadeja batted for 55.2 overs to save the game after India were 0/2. Shubman Gill (103), KL Rahul (90), Sundar (101) and Jadeja (107) were the main contributors to India’s draw.