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Pujara Slams Jaiswal's Headbutt as Unacceptable

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara criticizes Yashasvi Jaiswal for body contact in Colombo Test altercation.

Monday, 24 August 2026Yashasvi JaiswalAsitha FernandoCheteshwar PujaraIndiaSri LankaIndia tour of Sri Lanka 2026

Cheteshwar Pujara has joined the chorus of disapproval over Yashasvi Jaiswal's on-field clash with Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando during the second Test in Colombo. The veteran batter, now a commentator, said that while being upset or exchanging words is understandable, physical contact crosses the line and cannot be excused.

Pujara's remarks came after Jaiswal was dismissed for 45 and then engaged in a heated exchange with Fernando, which included what appeared to be a headbutt. The incident drew sanctions from the ICC, but Jaiswal defended his actions on social media, saying that if provoked, India would respond firmly.

Both players were penalized for their roles in the altercation, which overshadowed the opening day's play. Pujara emphasized that emotional control is essential at this level, making it clear that the visual of two players going chest-to-chest is not acceptable for the game.