India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak comments on Yashasvi Jaiswal's altercation: 'He shouldn't have approached so closely.'

Tempers flared during a tense moment in the Test match between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo, following a dramatic dismissal. Asitha Fernando claimed the wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal with the final delivery of the 17th over, which was already notable for its three boundaries. The left-handed batsman was visibly frustrated as he walked back to the pavilion after inside-edging the ball onto his stumps. However, an animated send-off from Fernando prompted Jaiswal to turn back, leading to a confrontation.

The 24-year-old batsman charged towards Fernando, making contact with the bowler's head. Fortunately, players from both teams quickly intervened, preventing the situation from escalating further. India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, commented on the incident, suggesting that it was a reaction to the heat of the moment. "I think the bowler commented something and it happened in the heat of the moment. Obviously, Yashasvi shouldn’t have gone so close to him, but it happened in the heat of the moment," Kotak stated.

Sri Lanka's bowling coach, Ryan van Niekerk, also addressed the altercation, emphasizing the competitive nature of Test cricket. He noted that facing a formidable team like India requires a proactive approach from bowlers. "Look, it is hard Test cricket, isn't it? When you're coming up against a team like India, you can't sit on the back foot and just bowl at them. I think from our side, it's bringing the challenge all the time," van Niekerk explained. He acknowledged that the emotions on the field can lead to verbal exchanges but left the resolution of the incident to the match referee.

The incident has drawn attention to the potential consequences under the ICC Code of Conduct, specifically Article 2.12, which addresses inappropriate physical contact. This regulation prohibits any form of physical contact during international matches, and the match referee, Andy Pycroft, will need to assess the situation based on available video evidence. Sanctions could range from a reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of a player's match fee, along with possible demerit points.