Déjà Vu? Ben Stokes’ Early Handshake with India Reminds Fans of MS Dhoni’s Shocking 2011 Call
Ben Stokes’ early draw offer sparks drama vs India, reminding fans of MS Dhoni’s similar decision in West Indies back in 2011.
The final day of the Manchester Test ended in unexpected drama, not because of the result, but because of a handshake. With India leading by 75 runs and Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar both in the 90s, England captain Ben Stokes approached the Indian batters and suggested calling the game off. Both politely declined.
What followed was a tense exchange. Stokes, visibly frustrated, asked Jadeja, “You want to get a hundred against Harry Brook?” Soon after, England removed their frontline bowlers and brought on part-timers to close the match. Jadeja and Sundar completed their centuries, and only then did both teams agree to shake hands.
While some backed Stokes for protecting his bowlers with one Test still to play, many fans and experts criticised England’s urgency to end the game, especially when India were dominating.
Dhoni Once did the Same & it Stunned Everyone
If this situation felt familiar, it’s because it is. Back in 2011, then India captain MS Dhoni made a similar call but from the other side.
During the final day of the third Test against West Indies in Dominica, India were chasing 180 in 47 overs. At one stage, they needed 86 runs in 15 overs with 7 wickets in hand. With a packed crowd watching and India already leading the series 1-0, Dhoni stunned everyone by offering a handshake and settling for a draw.
Despite having legends like Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and a young Virat Kohli still in the lineup, Dhoni chose not to risk a series win. He later explained it was about avoiding unnecessary risks on a tricky pitch.
Different Eras, Same Debate
Ben Stokes’ handshake controversy may seem like a modern moment, but it echoes Dhoni’s decision from 13 years ago. Both captains made calls to protect their team, one avoiding overworking bowlers, the other avoiding a risky chase.
Both sparked outrage, and both reminded fans how Test cricket isn’t just played on the field, but in the mind.
Back then, Dhoni was accused of lacking killer instinct. Today, Stokes faces similar noise for cutting the game short while opponents were in control. In both cases, a simple handshake left fans debating what could have been.
