‘SL bowlers may have said something’: Kotak on Jaiswal’s headbutt with Fernando

India batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal may be facing a significant sanction from the International Cricket Council (ICC) following a heated exchange with Sri Lanka bowler Asitha Fernando during the second Test match in Colombo. On August 23, 2026, Jaiswal appeared to headbutt Fernando as the latter dismissed the opener for 45 runs off 53 balls with a delivery from round the wicket.

The incident sparked a tense confrontation between the two players, who were soon joined by several Sri Lankan teammates. Jaiswal initially walked away with his head down but turned back towards Fernando, exchanging words before the situation escalated. Helmets were briefly banged together, and it appeared Jaiswal had locked horns with Fernando.

The confrontation was eventually defused, but the potential consequences for Jaiswal are serious. According to the ICC Code of Conduct, the incident falls under Level 4 offenses, which carry penalties ranging from a ban of five Test matches or 10 One Day International (ODI) matches to a life ban from cricket. The final punishment will depend on the match officials' assessment of the incident and the applicable charge.