Former India cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has weighed in on one of the most talked-about incidents from the recently concluded India A tri-series in Sri Lanka. The controversy revolved around teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, whose involvement in an on-field altercation sparked widespread debate among fans and experts alike.
The incident generated significant attention across the cricketing world, with opinions divided on whether disciplinary action was necessary. While some argued that the youngster should be given the benefit of the doubt, considering his age, others felt that stronger measures were required to send the right message.
Sanjay Manjrekar questions decision to not penalize Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Manjrekar expressed his disappointment over the handling of the incident and questioned why no action was taken against Suryavanshi despite physical contact occurring during the altercation. The former Indian batter pointed out that while Sri Lankan A players involved in the episode were reprimanded and fined, the Indian youngster escaped any form of punishment. According to Manjrekar, verbal exchanges are one thing, but physical confrontation should be viewed more seriously.
“Had he just gotten into a verbal fight, that would have been okay, but there was physical contact, and that is a big deal, according to me. The Sri Lankan referee must have gotten scared because it was an Indian player, I mean no fine, nothing, only the Sri Lankan players were warned and fined. I don’t think they handled this situation well, I just want to vent my frustration here,” Manjrekar said.
The controversy stemmed from a heated moment involving Suryavanshi and Sri Lanka A batter Vishen Halambage during the tri-series. The incident quickly became a major talking point, with many former players and fans debating whether disciplinary measures should have been imposed on the young Indian batter.
Manjrekar backs Suryavanshi but urges authorities to act firmly
Despite criticizing the decision-making process, Manjrekar clarified that his comments should not be interpreted as criticism of Suryavanshi himself. Instead, he emphasized the importance of guiding young cricketers early in their careers and ensuring that such incidents are addressed appropriately. The former batter stressed that the responsibility lies with administrators and governing bodies to protect the spirit of the game and discourage similar situations in the future.
“I am not going to be anti-Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and I won’t start hating him. I completely understand what he has done. But as people who are custodians of the game, you also have to react to that. You can’t show that it is okay. I mean, no action was taken against him, nothing at all. Not even an official warning, or a fine, just nothing,” Manjrekar added.
Interestingly, the incident did not affect Suryavanshi’s participation in the remainder of the tournament. The youngster responded in the best possible fashion with the bat, producing a sensational 29-ball 94 in the final against Sri Lanka A to help India A secure a commanding 66-run victory and lift the title.
Following his outstanding performances throughout the season, Suryavanshi has now earned a place in India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland, England and the Asian Games. The teenager’s selection comes on the back of a remarkable IPL 2026 campaign, where he finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer and won the Orange Cap, further cementing his status as one of Indian cricket’s brightest young talents.
