"This India will fight" - Yashasvi Jaiswal Hits Back After Asitha Fernando Fight

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s heated exchange with Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Kumara on Day 1 of the ongoing Colombo Test has continued to generate plenty of discussion. The Indian opener was involved in a fiery on-field confrontation after his dismissal, with both players getting involved in a tense verbal exchange and coming uncomfortably close.

While Yashasvi Jaiswal fight with Asitha Fernando has divided opinions, veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle has a balanced take on the reaction as he felt that the need for the young batter was to keep his emotions in check.

"This India will fight" - Yashasvi Jaiswal Reply After Asitha Fernando Fight

Harsha Bhogle felt that while Asitha Fernando's send-off may have crossed the line and Yashasvi Jaiswal was clearly provoked, but the Indian batter could have handled the situation differently.

Harsha, who is regarded as one of the best cricket commentators in the world, also pointed out that Jaiswal’s naturally combative personality can sometimes work against him.

Jaiswal, however, appeared to respond to the criticism in the comments section of Cricbuzz’s social media post. The opener surprisingly chose to reply rather than ignoring it. Yashasvi Jaiswal reply to Harsha Bhogle has since gone viral amongst the cricket fans.

His response clearly suggests the young batter believes there was more to the exchange than what was visible on television during the SL vs IND 2nd Test. It would be interesting to see if he ever discloses what actually Fernando said during the celebration to make the matter more transparent.

Will Jaiswal Be Fined For Asitha Fernando Fight?

Yashasvi Jaiswal could face disciplinary action after his helmet appeared to make contact with Fernando’s forehead during the heated exchange. Match referee Andy Pycroft is expected to review the incident, with Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, covering inappropriate physical contact, potentially coming into play.

If treated as a Level 1 offence, the punishment could range from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of his match fee, along with one or two demerit points. However, a penalty is not automatic, as officials will assess the intent and severity of the contact.

Fernando’s animated send-off and his role in the confrontation could also be examined. For now, Jaiswal, one of the best openers in the world, remains under scrutiny, with the final decision resting with the match referee.