Ravindra Jadeja celebrates his century in the India vs. England Test at Old Trafford, 2025.
In a gripping finale to the fourth Test between England and India at Old Trafford, former England cricketer Stuart Broad has come out in support of Indian centurions Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. As the match neared an inevitable draw, both players opted to chase personal milestones, defying England’s offer to end the game early.
A Test Match for the Ages
With the final session underway, England captain Ben Stokes extended a handshake to Jadeja, signaling a draw. However, Jadeja and Sundar, who had batted tirelessly for four hours to save the match for India, were determined to reach their Test centuries. For Sundar, it was a maiden Test hundred, a milestone that carried deep personal significance.
Speaking on the For The Love of Cricket podcast alongside co-host Jos Buttler, Broad praised the Indian duo’s resolve. “The Indian batters are right to go: I’ve worked really hard for the last four hours. Actually, I’m going to go and get a hundred,” Broad said, emphasizing the effort behind their achievement.
England’s Lighthearted Response
In a playful twist, Stokes handed the ball to part-timer Harry Brook, whose “filthy off-spin” made it easier for Jadeja and Sundar to reach their centuries. Broad humorously likened Brook’s bowling to “a poor man’s Dan Lawrence action,” highlighting the lighthearted moment amid the intense Test battle.
A Milestone with Meaning
Broad also shared a touching insight into Sundar’s post-match interview, where the young all-rounder dedicated his century to his family. “He was a bit emotional and said, ‘This is for my family,’ what a special moment, your first Test match hundred,” Broad noted. He stressed that Sundar’s century was earned through hours of resilience, not just the final 15 minutes of play.
The Spirit of Test Cricket
Broad, a veteran of 604 Test wickets, is no stranger to the competitive fire of Test cricket. Reflecting on the scenario, he admitted he would have been frustrated as a fielder after England spent 173 overs in the field, watching a potential victory slip away. Buttler, his co-host, echoed this sentiment, noting the natural frustration among England’s players.
The tension in Manchester is just one of many heated moments in a series that has showcased the raw emotion and drama of Test cricket. From Jadeja and Sundar’s defiance to England’s spirited fight, this series continues to prove why Test cricket remains a captivating format.
Why This Matters
This Test match encapsulates the essence of cricket—grit, determination, and personal triumphs within a team effort. For fans searching for updates on India vs. England Test series, Ravindra Jadeja’s century, or Washington Sundar’s maiden hundred, this moment at Old Trafford is a testament to the enduring allure of Test cricket.
Stay tuned for more updates on the India-England Test series and follow the latest cricket news for insights into unforgettable moments like these.
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