India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka fast bowler Asitha Fernando have been fined by the ICC after an on-field altercation during the second Test in Colombo.
Both players breached Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The rule covers inappropriate physical contact with another player, match official, support staff member or other person during an international match.
The ICC fined both players 25 percent of their match fees. They also received one demerit point each.
Jaiswal and Fernando clash after dismissal
The incident took place during the 17th over of India’s innings on the opening day.
Fernando had just dismissed Jaiswal when the India batter approached the Sri Lankan bowler. The two players exchanged words during the confrontation.
Fernando then moved his head towards Jaiswal. Jaiswal also leaned forward, resulting in head-to-head contact between the two cricketers.
The incident prompted officials to intervene and separate the players.
Neither Jaiswal nor Fernando had committed a similar offence during the previous 24 months. Both players admitted the breach and accepted the proposed sanctions.
Match referee Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel handled the matter. Because the players accepted the charges and penalties, no formal hearing was necessary.
India remain in control of second Test
The disciplinary action comes as India continue to hold the advantage in the second Test.
India reached 475-8 before rain disrupted play in Colombo. The weather forced the second session to end early and limited the amount of cricket played.
Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 95 when play was interrupted. The wicketkeeper-batter needed only five more runs to complete his second Test century.
India have already taken a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. They won the opening Test in Galle by 165 runs.
The strong position in Colombo gives India an opportunity to complete a series victory. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, need a major turnaround to level the series.
The Jaiswal-Fernando incident has added some controversy to an otherwise competitive Test. However, both players have accepted the ICC’s decision and will look to move on from the incident as the series continues.
