Former Indian spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly criticized England’s late Day 5 tactics during the drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford. With India fighting back through a gritty partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, England captain Ben Stokes offered to shake hands, 15 overs before scheduled close. However, the Indian batters, both nearing personal milestones, declined. At that moment, Jadeja was unbeaten on 89, while Sundar stood tall on 80. England’s bowlers had already been made to toil the entire day. The premature offer left many puzzled, and Stokes later explained it was meant to avoid further fatigue or injury to his frontline attack. But Ashwin, never shy of voicing strong opinions, took issue with the sportsmanship on display. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said, “Have you heard the term double standards? They played your bowlers all day, batted you out and suddenly, when they’re nearing hundreds, you want to walk off? Why should they?” Read also: Divya Deshmukh Compared to MS Dhoni by Former Coach After Win “If I Were Captain, I’d Play All 15 Overs,” Says Ashwin The off-spinner further added that India were fully within their rights to deny the handshake, especially when they have batted for so many hours on the crease. He explained, “They have worked hard, so you want them to leave their hundred?” His comment echoed sentiments across several former players who viewed England's offer as contradictory to the spirit they themselves advocate. Jadeja and Sundar eventually completed their centuries, after which the match was drawn. It was Sundar’s maiden Test hundred, while Jadeja added another feather to his red-ball career. Ashwin wasn’t done yet. He said, “If I were the Indian captain, I would have played the entire 15 overs,. You didn’t want to tire your bowlers. Fine. But being frustrated and trying to stop someone else’s joy—that’s not how cricket works.” The series stands 2-1 in England’s favour. The final Test begins on July 31 at The Oval.