Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticized England captain Ben Stokes for his controversial offer to draw the match on Day 5 of the Manchester Test, calling it an example of “double standards.” Ashwin’s comments come after Indian batters Ravindra Jadeja (89*) and Washington Sundar (80*) rejected Stokes’ offer for an early handshake, choosing instead to continue their innings. Stokes’ proposal came when the match was clearly heading toward a draw, but India had two batters nearing well-deserved centuries.

Ashwin, speaking via X (formerly Twitter), questioned why such offers are made only when India is in control. “When we are fighting hard and earning our moments, you want us to walk away? That’s not how the game works,” he said. The cricket fraternity, including former players and fans, have largely backed India’s decision to continue batting, emphasizing the value of personal milestones and team morale.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir also defended the move, stating, “If someone’s on 90, you don’t walk off. That’s not cricket.” The incident has sparked a wider debate about sportsmanship and fair play in modern cricket.