The International Cricket Council has confirmed disciplinary action against India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka fast bowler Asitha Fernando following an incident during the second Test between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo.
Both players have been fined 25% of their match fees and received one demerit point each for a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Heated Moment After Jaiswal’s Dismissal
The incident occurred during the 17th over of India’s first innings on the opening day of the Colombo Test.
Fernando dismissed Jaiswal, after which the Indian batter approached the Sri Lankan bowler. The two players exchanged words before the situation became more heated. Fernando moved towards Jaiswal, and Jaiswal responded, resulting in their heads making contact.
ICC Takes Action
The match officials subsequently charged both players under Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which covers inappropriate physical contact during an international match.
The ICC confirmed that both Jaiswal and Fernando accepted the charges and the proposed penalties. As a result, there was no requirement for a formal disciplinary hearing. Neither player had recorded a previous offence during the preceding 24 months.
No Suspension for Either Player
The sanctions do not include a suspension, meaning both players remain available for their respective teams.
However, the one demerit point added to each player’s disciplinary record will remain for 24 months under ICC regulations. Players who accumulate four or more demerit points within that period can have them converted into suspension points.
Final Takeaway
The ICC’s decision brings an official conclusion to the Jaiswal-Fernando confrontation. Both players have accepted their punishments, with each receiving a 25% match-fee fine and one demerit point.
The incident also highlights the importance of maintaining discipline when emotions run high during international cricket.
