The fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford ended in a hard-earned draw for the visitors, but not without drama. While the result kept England 2-1 ahead in the five-match series, the final hour of play stirred emotions and brought the conduct of certain players under scrutiny, especially that of England’s Harry Brook.As India clawed their way back from 0/2 in the second innings, the visitors displayed grit and composure. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s partnership proved key, not just in terms of survival, but also in seizing the momentum ahead of the series finale at The Oval.The controversy unfolded late in the day, with England captain Ben Stokes offering a handshake to settle for a draw. But Jadeja declined, choosing instead to bat on in pursuit of a well-deserved century. With England clearly frustrated, the mood turned tense. This was only their second draw in 40 matches under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum.
Stokes handed the ball to part-timer Harry Brook, who was promptly dispatched for a six by Jadeja. After bringing up his century, Jadeja’s celebration was disrupted as Brook stepped in with another handshake attempt which Sundar visibly ignored, walking past with composure as the crowd buzzed. Brook was left with a wry smile, but the incident didn’t go unnoticed.Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle voiced his thoughts on X, calling out Brook’s behaviour while applauding India’s resolve.
Harsha Bhogle on X (Screengrab)
Bhogle commended India’s dressing room for backing Jadeja and Sundar in the moment. Skipper Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir were seen in full support of their players, dismissing England’s subtle push to close out the game early. “When you have batted 50 overs to save a Test match, you are perfectly entitled to seek a cherished landmark. And it is good to see that everyone is in the batters’ camp on this one,” wrote the 64-year-old.
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Was Harry Brook’s behavior during the match justified?
“I have no issue with Stokes wanting to go off but I hope young Harry Brook, when he has a quiet moment to himself, will be a bit disappointed with what he did,” Bhogle wrote.The final Test begins in three days’ time at The Oval. While England retain the upper hand, India’s fightback in Manchester, both with the bat and in midset, may just tilt the balance heading into the decider.
