The final day of the fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford in Manchester has ignited a fierce debate surrounding Ben Stokes's captaincy and England's sportsmanship, with some observers suggesting the team "surrendered the high ground" in a moment that revealed "visible cracks in their facade".

The controversy stems from Stokes's offer to shake hands and settle for a draw with India's Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar nearing their respective centuries. At the time of the offer, Jadeja was batting on 89 and Sundar on 80, and they refused the offer. Stokes's explanation was that with a draw seemingly inevitable, he didn't want to risk his frontline bowlers with a short turnaround before the final Test.

This justification has been met with considerable skepticism and criticism. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif stated that Stokes lost respect because of his attempt to end the game prematurely. Kaif questioned why Stokes would try to stop the game when things weren't going his way, especially with almost two days remaining to bowl India out.

Geoffrey Boycott also weighed in, criticizing Stokes and the England team for poor sportsmanship. Boycott argued that Jadeja and Sundar deserved the opportunity to reach their hundreds and that he would never have allowed anyone to drag him off the field when he was so close to a century. He further highlighted England's bowling deficiencies, pointing out that Stokes, a batsman-bowler, was their best bowler in both innings.

The incident has sparked a wider discussion about the spirit of cricket and the importance of individual milestones within a team context. Some argue that Stokes's offer was a pragmatic decision made in the best interests of his team, while others view it as a disrespectful act that undermined the integrity of the game.

Kevin Pietersen defended Stokes, lashing out at critics. Jonathan Trott also defended Stokes, saying that England would not have focused on individual milestones if they were in India's place.

Adding fuel to the fire were reports of heated exchanges and constant chatter from England players aimed at disrupting Jadeja and Sundar's focus. Despite these efforts, the Indian duo remained resolute, eventually reaching their centuries and securing a draw for their team.

Gautam Gambhir criticized Stokes's gesture, hailing India's determination to deny England a win.

The handshake controversy has undoubtedly added another layer of intrigue to an already captivating series. With the series standing at 2-1 in England's favor, the final Test at The Oval promises to be a highly charged affair, with both teams eager to settle the score, both on and off the field.