The fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford in Manchester concluded in a draw, but not without a dramatic finish that saw tempers flare and an offer of a handshake rejected. With India in a comfortable position on the final day, nearing a draw, England captain Ben Stokes offered to shake hands with the Indian batsmen, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, signaling an acceptance of the draw. However, with both batsmen approaching their respective centuries, they declined the offer, much to the surprise and visible frustration of Stokes.

India had fought hard to get into a position where a draw was possible, after being 0/2 on Day 4. Shubman Gill's century, KL Rahul's 90, and a determined middle-order had kept India alive in the game. On the final day, Jadeja and Sundar were determined to reach their centuries.

According to the rules, a minimum of 15 overs must be bowled in the last hour of a Test match. The captains can agree to finish the match if they both feel that neither side can win, but only after the last hour has begun or a minimum of 15 overs are remaining.

Stokes' offer was made with about 15 overs remaining in the day's play. Jadeja and Sundar, however, were focused on reaching their individual milestones. This decision led to some tense moments on the field.

The stump microphones picked up a verbal exchange between England players Harry Brook and Zak Crawley and Ravindra Jadeja. Brook and Crawley were heard questioning Jadeja's decision to refuse the handshake, with comments like, "Do you wanna get to a hundred off Harry Brook?". Jadeja's response was simply that it was up to the captain.

Shortly after, Jadeja reached his century with a six off Brook, and Sundar followed suit soon after. Only then did the teams shake hands, bringing an end to the match.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar, commentating on the game, noted that the England players were not applauding the centuries and were standing with their arms folded. He suggested that India should have continued batting for the full 15 overs.

The decision by Jadeja and Sundar to continue batting despite the offer of a draw sparked debate. Some felt that it was unsportsmanlike to refuse the handshake and prioritize personal milestones over the spirit of the game. Others argued that India had every right to play for their centuries, especially given the hard work they had put in to get into that position.

Earlier in the match, Ravindra Jadeja was involved in another controversial moment when he was dismissed in the first innings. Replays of the catch that dismissed him were ambiguous, leading to debate among fans. Zak Crawley was also dismissed off Jadeja's bowling, missing out on a century.

The series now heads to The Oval in London for the fifth and final Test.