Ajay Jadeja advises Yashasvi Jaiswal to think before speaking following altercation with Asitha Fernando.

NEW DELHI: The opening day of the second Test match in Colombo witnessed a notable incident involving Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lankan fast bowler Asitha Fernando, which has since drawn criticism from former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja. Jaiswal, who scored 45 runs before being dismissed by Fernando, found himself embroiled in a heated exchange with the bowler after a series of aggressive deliveries.

During the first session at the SSC ground, Jaiswal hit three boundaries off Fernando, prompting a fiery response from the Sri Lankan pacer. As Jaiswal made his way back to the pavilion, Fernando delivered a pointed send-off, leading Jaiswal to confront him. The situation escalated quickly, culminating in a physical altercation where Jaiswal's helmet made contact with Fernando's forehead, and both players had to be separated by Sri Lanka's captain Dhananjaya de Silva and other teammates.

Ajay Jadeja, speaking on Sony Sports, expressed his disapproval of Jaiswal's actions, emphasizing the dangers of physical confrontations on the field. He recalled a previous incident where Jaiswal had engaged in banter with Sri Lankan player Niroshan Dickwella, suggesting that while friendly exchanges are acceptable, they should not cross into aggression. "It is dangerous territory. There is no doubt about that. Physical contact is a different thing," Jadeja remarked, highlighting the need for players to be mindful of their conduct.

Jadeja further noted that players who engage in verbal exchanges must be prepared to handle similar responses. "If you can't take it back, don't say it to others either while standing on the ground," he added, underscoring the importance of maintaining sportsmanship.

India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, also weighed in on the incident, acknowledging that Jaiswal's proximity to Fernando was unwise. He suggested that the confrontation stemmed from heightened emotions during the match. "I think the bowler must have made some comment, and it was probably said in the heat of the moment," Kotak explained, reiterating that such exchanges can occur in the intensity of competitive play.

As the situation unfolds, match referee Andy Pycroft may review the incident under Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which addresses inappropriate physical contact. If Jaiswal is found in violation, he could face penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of his match fee, along with potential demerit points.