Tensions are mounting ahead of the fourth Test between India and England at Old Trafford, with India captain Shubman Gill accusing the hosts of violating the "spirit of the game" during the previous match at Lord's.

Speaking on Tuesday, Gill criticised England for intentionally slowing down play during the dramatic third Test, which England won by 22 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

The Indian skipper expressed frustration over the delay caused by England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, who arrived late at the crease on day three when India had seven minutes of play left.

“A lot has been said about it, so let me be clear,” Gill stated. “There were seven minutes remaining in the day’s play, and their batsmen were 90 seconds late to the crease. Not 10 or 20 — 90 seconds late. That’s not in line with the spirit of the game.”

Tensions remained high throughout the final two days, with multiple confrontations between players.

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England, who can clinch the series with a win in the fourth Test starting Wednesday, have responded to the remarks. England captain Ben Stokes said his team would not initiate any conflict but wouldn't shy away from standing their ground either.

“We won’t go looking for a fight, because that would distract us from our main goal,” Stokes said. “But we won’t be backing down if we’re challenged. That applies to most teams — it’s not something unique to us.

Source: Agency