A serious incident occurred during the second test match between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo. Young Indian batsman Yasasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lankan fast bowler Asith Fernando engaged in a confrontation directly on the field.
This incident took place on the first day of the match, in the 17th over of the Indian innings. After Asith Fernando dismissed Jaiswal, the atmosphere on the field intensified. On the way to the dressing room, Jaiswal approached Fernando, and an exchange of words took place between them.
Subsequently, Fernando displayed aggression by thrusting his head towards Jaiswal. In response, the Indian player also did not back down and thrust his head forward, leading to a collision of their heads. Such behavior contravenes the laws of cricket.
ICC takes serious action
As such conduct is considered a breach of the spirit of the game, the International Cricket Council (ICC) found both players guilty of violating Article 2.12 of the Code of Conduct. This rule pertains to making 'improper physical contact' with any player, umpire, or match referee during a match.
As a result of this incident, both athletes were fined 25% of their match fees. Additionally, one demerit point was added to each player's record. This is the first such offense for both players in the last 24 months.
Both players admitted their guilt and accepted the penalty imposed by Match Referee Andy Pycroft from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel. Consequently, a formal hearing on this matter was not required.
