'This India will fight': Yashasvi Jaiswal on clash with Fernando
What's the story
Yashasvi Jaiswal has finally spoken about his fiery exchange with Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando during the second Test match in Colombo. The incident happened after Jaiswal was dismissed for 45 runs on Day 1 by Fernando, who bowled a delivery that sharply moved back to breach the Indian opener's defense. After being given out, Jaiswal confronted Fernando as Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva intervened to separate them.
Clarification
Know full context before making a judgment: Jaiswal
Responding to a question on Instagram from Cricbuzz, Jaiswal said that the full context of what was said on the field is not known before making a judgment.
He added, "If you don't know what he said then please don't make your judgment if anyone crossed the line we need to let them know this India will fight and reply."
This comment quickly went viral, adding another layer to an incident that had already attracted considerable attention.
Twitter Post
Here's what Jaiswal wrote!
Yashasvi Jaiswal takes on fight with Sri Lanka player ASHITHA Fernando replied a reels upload by Cricbuzz.🤯 pic.twitter.com/zzgg3dM3Ds
— Cricket Central (@CricketCentrl) August 24, 2026
Coach's view
India's batting coach on the incident
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak acknowledged that the exchange seemed to have gone beyond a verbal confrontation, while suggesting emotions may have taken over.
He said, "I think they must have said something to him, and it might have happened in the heat of the moment. Obviously, Jaiswal, I don't think he should have been so close (to Fernando), but that happens when you are in the heat of the moment."
Match referee's decision
Incident may attract ICC scrutiny
The incident could come under the scrutiny of match referee Andy Pycroft as the ICC Code of Conduct has provisions for inappropriate physical contact between players during an international match.
Article 2.12 deals with inappropriate physical contact with another player during an international match.
If Jaiswal is found guilty of a Level 1 breach, he could face punishment ranging from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of his match fee and one or two demerit points.