Jaiswal, Fernando fined 25% match fee for on-field clash

India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando have each been fined 25% of their match fee and handed one demerit point for a heated on-field altercation on the opening day of the second Test in Colombo on August 23. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed the Level 1 sanctions on August 24 after both players admitted to breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to inappropriate physical contact.

The incident happened during India's first innings after Fernando dismissed Jaiswal for 45. The Sri Lankan bowler gave an animated send-off, leading to an exchange of words. Both players came face to face, and their helmets made contact before teammates separated them. The Hindu reports that both team managements downplayed the incident. The Times of India adds that Jaiswal later posted on social media, saying critics should not judge without knowing what was said, adding: "India will fight and reply." India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak called it a "heat of the moment" action but said Jaiswal should not have gotten physically close.