Yashasvi Jaiswal has responded to the criticism surrounding his heated exchange with Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando during the ongoing second Test in Colombo, insisting that there was more to the incident than what was visible in the viral video.

The India opener addressed the controversy on Monday morning after a video of the on-field confrontation circulated widely on social media. Jaiswal responded to one of the posts on Instagram, explaining why he reacted strongly to the Sri Lankan bowler.

“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.

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Jaiswal Explains Heated Exchange With Fernando

The incident involving Jaiswal and Fernando took place during India's first innings of the second Test after Jaiswal’s dismissal. The two players were involved in a tense verbal exchange, with the situation briefly escalating on the field.

The video quickly went viral, leading to criticism of Jaiswal's reaction. However, the Indian batter's response suggests that the exchange was triggered by comments made during the confrontation which were not clearly audible or visible in the footage being circulated online.

While Former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja has criticzed his appproach, Harsha Bhogle took a stand for Jaiswal. Bhogle said,"He was provoked, but I think they got a little too close."

ICC Code Of Conduct In Focus

The incident could potentially have disciplinary consequences for Jaiswal.

The tense exchange has reportedly brought the Indian batter under the ambit of a possible ICC Code of Conduct breach, with match referee Andy Pycroft potentially examining the incident.

One provision that could come under consideration is Article 2.12, which relates to inappropriate physical contact with another player during an international match.

Any disciplinary decision will depend on the match officials' assessment of the incident, including the nature of the physical contact and what was said between the players.

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India Continue To Dominate Sri Lanka

The controversy comes as India remain firmly in control of the second Test in Colombo.

India have piled up a huge first-innings total, with Devdutt Padikkal scoring a century while Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel have also made important contributions.

With the match progressing in India's favour, the Jaiswal-Fernando exchange has provided another talking point in an otherwise dominant performance from the visitors.