July 29, 2025
Pietersen Defends Stokes: "You're Not In the Battle" Amid Manchester Draw Drama


Amid criticism surrounding England captain Ben Stokes’ emotional reaction during the closing stages of the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, former England great Kevin Pietersen has vehemently defended his former teammate.
Pietersen urged critics to show restraint, emphasising that three days in the field with no result can demoralise even the most stoic athletes. He wrote on X: “Two days fielding and no result on the cards – you WANT to get off the field! You cannot have a pop at Ben Stokes for his frustration. Very easy to have a pop at him when you’re sitting in your lounge watching. You’re NOT in the battle. Leave the men in the ring to be emotional.”
He added that the controversy should not overshadow the efforts of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, whose 203-run stand helped save the Test and now make the final Test at The Oval "very very important."
Context & Fallout
On Day 5, with India leading by 75 runs and Jadeja (89*) and Sundar (80*) nearing centuries, Stokes offered a handshake to bring the match to a close. The Indian duo declined and went on to complete their hundreds. England responded by using part-time bowlers Harry Brook and Joe Root. Skipper Stokes later explained he did not want to risk overworking his frontline bowlers and had no issue with the partnership itself.
Critics across media called out England’s on-field conduct, with some labelling it unsporting. Nasser Hussain and Sanjay Manjrekar expressed disappointment, suggesting Stokes’ annoyance bordered on petulance. Others, including Harsha Bhogle, echoed these sentiments. Yet, figures like Justin Langer argued that Jadeja and Sundar were fully justified in chasing their individual milestones.
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