• Dale Steyn backed Ben Stokes' early handshake offer in the Old Trafford Test, saying personal milestones shouldn't override team goals.

  • Steyn’s remarks attracted a flurry of reactions from fans on social media.

ENG vs IND: Fans call out Dale Steyn after he defends Ben Stokes in Manchester Test handshake dispute
Dale Steyn (Image Source: X)

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Team India pulled off a sensational draw in the fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford, but final-day drama sparked widespread discussion across the cricketing fraternity. Indian batter Ravindra Jadeja notably denied a handshake offered by England Captain Ben Stokes, which was intended to mark the end of the match. At the time, both Indian batters were nearing their centuries, adding further intrigue to the moment.

Dale Steyn backs Ben Stokes’ decision to offer early draw

South African legend Dale Steyn recently shared his views in support of Stokes’ action on Day 5 of the fourth Test. Replying to a tweet by fellow Proteas spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who said India had every right to reject the draw offer, secured well-earned centuries, and finished the match on their own terms, in contrast Steyn wrote “Shamo this onion has many layers to it, and each one will make someone cry. The only issue I see here is the one thing people aren’t realizing, the batters weren’t playing for 100s, they were batting for a DRAW. That was the goal. Draw the game. Once that was accomplished, and a result was out of the question a handshake was offered, that’s the gentlemanly thing to do right? It’s not then the time to realize they safe and now say no we’d prefer some free milestones,”

 

Steyn also stressed on team goals over personal milestones

Steyn further wrote that no individual dictates batting duration, noting teams can agree to draw early. He explained the match had reached a clear stalemate, England pushing for a win, India securing a draw, justifying the handshake. Steyn stressed team goals over personal milestones but joked that if he and Shamsi were on 90, they’d refuse to leave. Steyn, one of the most loved foreign cricketers in India, faced backlash on social media after supporting Stokes’ early draw offer. Fans accused Steyn of hypocrisy, pointing out a perceived double standard. Many expressed disappointment, saying his comments clashed with the spirit he once embodied on the field.

Also READ: Dale Steyn defends Ben Stokes; criticizes Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar for obsession with milestones

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir questions England’s sportsmanship in Ben Stokes’ handshake controversy on Day 5 of Manchester Test

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About the Author:
VARUN VERMA
Varun Verma is a dedicated cricket enthusiast with a flair for storytelling and in-depth analysis. Combining a deep knowledge of the sport with a talent for engaging content creation, he brings the drama and thrill of the game to life for fans around the world. Drawing inspiration from the grit and passion of players like Ben Stokes, Varun aspires to one day experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. He can be reached at varun.verma@crickettimes.com and followed on LinkedIn and X.