Yashasvi Jaiswal has faced criticism from former India cricketers Cheteshwar Pujara and Saba Karim after an on-field incident involving Sri Lankan fast bowler Asitha Fernando during the second Test in Colombo.
The incident happened after Fernando dismissed Jaiswal. Following the wicket, Jaiswal walked towards the Sri Lankan bowler and the two players exchanged words. The argument became more serious when Jaiswal made physical contact with Fernando by headbutting him.
The incident quickly attracted attention because physical contact between players is not considered acceptable in cricket. Former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara said players need to control their emotions even when they are frustrated or involved in a heated argument.
Pujara understood that players can become emotional during an intense Test match, but he said there is a clear difference between a verbal disagreement and physical contact. He stressed that players should maintain discipline and avoid crossing the line during arguments.
Former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim also criticised the incident. He said both Jaiswal and Fernando were responsible for allowing the situation to become heated. According to Karim, such behaviour can send the wrong message to young cricketers and fans watching the game.
Karim also pointed out that cricket is not a contact sport. Players can compete aggressively within the rules, but physical confrontation should not be part of the game. He said cricketers must learn to manage their emotions and settle disagreements without physical actions.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) also took action against both players. Jaiswal and Fernando were found to have breached Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which covers inappropriate physical contact with another player.
Both players were fined 25 percent of their match fees and received one demerit point. They admitted to the offence and accepted the punishment, meaning a formal hearing was not required.
The incident has raised discussions about player behaviour and sportsmanship in international cricket. Test matches can involve strong emotions and pressure, but players are expected to respect their opponents and follow the rules.
Jaiswal and Fernando will now have to move on from the incident and focus on their cricket. The criticism from former players also serves as a reminder that disagreements on the field should not turn into physical confrontations.
The incident is likely to remain a talking point because both players are important members of their respective teams. Cricket authorities and former players hope such incidents can be avoided in the future and that players maintain discipline even during tense moments.