Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has defended his actions following his heated confrontation with Sri Lanka fast bowler Asitha Fernando during the second Test between Sri Lanka and India at the SSC in Colombo.
Jaiswal responded to a social media video featuring commentator Harsha Bhogle discussing the incident, saying India would not back down if challenged.
“If you don’t know what he said then please don’t make your judgment. If anyone crosses the line, we need to let them know this India will fight and reply,” Jaiswal commented.
The incident occurred after Fernando dismissed Jaiswal for 45 on the opening day of the Test. Fernando delivered a fiery send-off, prompting Jaiswal to turn back and confront the Sri Lankan pacer.
The two players exchanged words and came face-to-face before Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and other players intervened.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak later acknowledged that Jaiswal should not have approached Fernando so closely, while suggesting the confrontation happened in the heat of the moment.
“I think the bowler must have made some comment, and it was probably said in the heat of the moment. Obviously, I don’t think Jaiswal should have gone that close, but these things happen in the heat of the moment,” Kotak said.
