Sri Lanka coach has reacted to the heated confrontation between Asitha Fernando and Yashasvi Jaiswal during the opening day of the second Test in Colombo, after the India opener and the pacer were involved in a tense on-field exchange.
The incident occurred after Fernando dismissed Jaiswal towards the end of an eventful over. Jaiswal had struck the Sri Lankan quick for three boundaries earlier in the over before Fernando had the final say by removing him. However, what followed quickly grabbed attention as Jaiswal turned back while walking towards the dressing room. The two players exchanged words before the confrontation became physical, with the pair appearing to clash heads and push each other. Sri Lankan players intervened and separated them before the situation could escalate further.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Asitha Fernando caught up in heated exchange
The incident added an unexpected flashpoint to an otherwise absorbing opening day at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground. Jaiswal had looked aggressive during his stay at the crease and repeatedly challenged Fernando during the over. After being dismissed, the India batter appeared unhappy with Fernando’s reaction and turned around to confront the bowler.
The exchange lasted only briefly, but both players were visibly animated. Their teammates quickly stepped in, ensuring the confrontation did not develop into a more serious incident. With tensions rising, the episode became one of the most talked-about moments of the day, particularly because it came immediately after a significant wicket for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka coach offers perspective on incident
Speaking after the day’s play, Sri Lanka fast-bowling coach Ryan van Niekerk played down the verbal exchanges and said the match referee is responsible for determining whether any action is required. He specifically pointed towards Andy Pycroft, who is serving as the match referee for the Test, making it clear that Sri Lanka’s coaching staff would not get involved in deciding whether the incident warranted further action.
“The verbals are probably an overflow of emotion. I’ll leave that to the match referee to deal with,” van Niekerk said as quoted by NDTV.
The confrontation had its roots in an intriguing battle between Jaiswal and Fernando. The Indian opener had taken the attack to the Sri Lankan pacer, finding the boundary three times during the over. Fernando, however, had the final say when he dismissed Jaiswal with the last ball. The wicket was an important one for Sri Lanka, but the celebrations were followed by the confrontation as Jaiswal turned back towards the bowler.
Devdutt Padikkal century keeps India in control
Away from the heated exchange, India enjoyed a productive opening day, reaching 300 for five at stumps. Devdutt Padikkal was the star of India’s batting effort, producing a determined 117 from 168 deliveries. His century proved particularly important after Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt following a blow to his left arm and India lost wickets at regular intervals.
Padikkal survived early scares after being dropped on 0 and 1 but capitalised on those opportunities. His innings was not built entirely around fluent strokeplay, although he produced some powerful pulls and drives when the conditions allowed. The century was Padikkal’s second in as many Tests, further enhancing his reputation as a batter capable of converting starts into substantial scores.
