NEW DELHI: Sri Lanka Cricket has reportedly taken disciplinary action against several players involved in the heated scenes that followed the India A versus Sri Lanka A tri-series match in Dambulla. The game concluded dramatically with Sri Lanka A emerging victorious in the Super Over after both teams had scored 265 runs. However, the post-match altercation between India's Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sri Lanka A's Vishen Halambage captured widespread attention.
According to a report from Cricbuzz, match referee Pradeep Jeyapragash sanctioned Halambage, while wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella was also fined for a separate offence, believed to be excessive appealing. It remains unclear whether Sooryavanshi, who was seen shoving Halambage before being separated by teammates, has faced any punishment. Reports suggested there was no official hearing, and the sanctions were based solely on the umpires' reports.
Bahutule Backs Sooryavanshi
India's spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule defended the 15-year-old batter, expressing surprise at the incident given the youngster's calm demeanor. "It was an unfortunate incident, but we don't know how he was provoked because I know him and Vaibhav is a very composed kid," Bahutule said ahead of India's match against Afghanistan. "I'm sure there are experienced coaches there who will guide him. Sri Lankan players should also be educated on how to behave," he added.
'He Will Learn'
Bahutule, who has worked closely with Sooryavanshi at the youth level and with Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, believes the teenager will take valuable lessons from the episode. "He will learn, he is a young kid with a lot of responsibility of representing India. I'm sure he will not repeat it, and such incidents can be avoided," the former Mumbai captain said. The confrontation occurred after India's Super Over defeat, with television footage showing an upset Sooryavanshi pushing Halambage before Dickwella stepped in to calm things down.
