India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has suggested introducing free hits in Test cricket to tackle the growing no-ball problem after Indian spinners bowled 10 no-balls by day four of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Bahutule made the light-hearted proposal during the post-day press conference on Wednesday, though he emphasized that the support staff is working seriously to fix the issue.
Spinners Struggle with Front-Foot Line
The Indian spin attack bowled a staggering 10 no-balls in the first four days of the Colombo Test, the highest by any spin attack in a single Test since 2021. Afghanistan holds the unwanted record with 14 no-balls in a Test. Bahutule admitted the numbers are a concern but expressed confidence that the bowlers will improve.
Bahutule’s Free Hit Suggestion
When asked about a solution, Bahutule jokingly proposed that Test cricket adopt the free hit rule from limited-overs formats. I am not a guardian of the rules, he said, but if free hits are introduced the number of no-balls will surely come down. No team would want to give away an extra ball and extra runs through no-balls, he added.
Work in Progress with Jadeja and Jain
Bahutule revealed that the team has worked extensively with Ravindra Jadeja and Saranash Jain on their take-off point while delivering the ball. Sometimes on a particular delivery they try a bit too hard and go beyond the crease, he explained. I am sure they will improve and get better. The coach emphasized that bowlers are constantly reminded during net sessions and that the support staff monitors both spinners and fast bowlers.
Serious Approach in Training
Bahutule confirmed that the coaching staff takes every session seriously. Sometimes I act as umpire myself and at other times another coach umpires, he said. We keep an eye on both spin and fast bowlers. We definitely value this and the work continues. The issue has become a talking point in the ongoing series as India push for a win in the second Test.
