Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take firmer action against young players Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal in light of their recent confrontations on the field. He emphasised the potential negative implications of allowing such behaviour to continue unchecked, suggesting it could set a dangerous precedent for future conduct.

Manjrekar’s remarks followed an incident during the second Test match in Colombo, where both Jaiswal and Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando received fines amounting to 25 per cent of their match fees and a demerit point from the ICC. This decision was made after the two players acknowledged their breach of Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which pertains to inappropriate physical contact.

The incident unfolded after Jaiswal was dismissed for a score of 45. Following the wicket, Fernando reportedly gave Jaiswal a send-off, prompting the Indian opener to confront him. The situation escalated, leading to contact between Jaiswal’s helmet and Fernando’s forehead before teammates intervened.

Previous Incident Raises Concerns

Manjrekar pointed out that this situation bears resemblance to an earlier incident involving Sooryavanshi, who was embroiled in a heated dispute with Sri Lanka A players during a tri-series match in Dambulla in June. After India A lost that match in a Super Over, Sooryavanshi was seen pushing Sri Lankan player Vishen Halambage, leading to questions regarding potential disciplinary actions against the teenager.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia reportedly stated that the board would not intervene, as matters concerning discipline were to be handled by match officials and the relevant cricketing authorities. Instead, he advised the India A players to focus on their performance rather than getting sidetracked by peripheral issues.

Manjrekar’s concerns about the implications of these incidents have intensified following Jaiswal’s recent altercation, prompting a discussion about the standards of behaviour expected from young athletes. His position highlights a perceived inconsistency in the consequences for Indian players involved in similar disputes.

Jaiswal Defends His Actions

In response to criticism regarding his conduct, Jaiswal defended himself against comments made by cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle. Bhogle suggested that Jaiswal should have chosen to walk away from the situation. Jaiswal countered by urging that judgments should not be made without full understanding of the provocation he faced. He stated, “If someone crosses the line, we need to let them know. This India will fight and reply,” asserting that he felt justified in his actions.

Acknowledging the provocation, Bhogle noted that although Jaiswal’s reaction was somewhat understandable, he believed that such behaviour should not overshadow Jaiswal’s talent and potential. He advised that players of Jaiswal’s calibre should focus more on their skills than on engaging in confrontations.

India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also offered a considered viewpoint, suggesting that while there may have been provocations from the opposing team, Jaiswal should have avoided escalating the situation by getting too close to Fernando. Manjrekar’s stance highlights the need for a balance between maintaining competitiveness and drawing clear lines regarding acceptable conduct in cricket.

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