Yashasvi Jaiswal was involved in a heated exchange with Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando on Day 1 of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. The incident occurred shortly after Fernando dismissed the Indian opener in the 17th over, prompting players from both sides to intervene.
India won the toss and elected to bat first on Sunday, August 23, looking to build on their 1-0 series lead after a 165-run victory in Galle. However, Sri Lanka made early inroads as both Indian openers were dismissed before the visitors could settle into the innings.
Jaiswal had looked fluent during his stay at the crease, scoring 45 off 53 deliveries with nine boundaries. He appeared particularly aggressive toward Fernando, striking the pacer for three boundaries before their battle ended dramatically.
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On the final ball of the 17th over, Fernando delivered from around the wicket on a good length outside off. Jaiswal attempted to punch the ball through the off side without moving his feet sufficiently. The delivery moved back sharply, took the inside edge and crashed into the off stump.
Fernando celebrated the breakthrough with an animated send-off, which appeared to upset Jaiswal. The Indian batter turned back while walking towards the dressing room and approached the Sri Lankan pacer. The two exchanged words before the confrontation escalated briefly.
Heated moment between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Asitha Fernando pic.twitter.com/wWtWSoxqk0
— Abid Hasan (@Abid_kw22) August 23, 2026
Body contact between Jaiswal and Asitha Fernando.. #SLVIND pic.twitter.com/w3Q905WUIf
— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) August 23, 2026
Jaiswal and Fernando came close and were involved in some pushing and shoving before Kamindu Mendis and other Sri Lankan players intervened to separate them.
Sri Lanka had already made an early breakthrough by dismissing KL Rahul. Lahiru Kumara removed the Indian opener for 18 off 33 balls after Rahul attempted to attack a wide delivery outside off. He failed to move his feet properly while playing the cut and edged the ball behind, where Niroshan Dickwella completed the catch. Rahul’s dismissal ended India’s 37-run opening partnership and put pressure on the visitors during the opening session.
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Devdutt Padikkal then joined Jaiswal at the crease. The left-hander had been India’s standout batter in Galle, scoring 167 in the first innings and 44 in the second during India’s comprehensive victory. However, he struggled to find his rhythm in Colombo and was given two early reprieves after Sri Lankan fielders failed to hold catches.
