Sairaj Bahutule proposes free-hits in Test cricket to reduce no-balls

Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja (Pic: BCCI)

India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule addressed the ongoing issue of overstepping among the team's spinners during the second Test against Sri Lanka, suggesting that introducing free-hits in Test cricket could curb the problem.

Indian spinners have bowled 10 no-balls so far in the Colombo Test, the highest count by any spin unit in a Test match since 2021, trailing only Afghanistan's record of 14 no-balls.

Addressing the media following Day 4, Bahutule discussed the ongoing efforts to address the issue and admitted that it is a matter of concern.

"It is something which we have been working on. It is definitely a concern at times. But when the bowler is putting in that effort and gets a wicket in situations where wickets are not coming, he has a tendency to push himself, but that is not an excuse," said Bahutule.

"But a lot of work has been put in with Ravindra Jadeja, with Saransh (Jain), about where the take-off point is. But sometimes, the effort they put in for that particular delivery is a bit more, and they tend to overstep. I am sure they will rectify it and get better," he added.

Free-hits can reduce no balls, says Bahutule

Bahutule jokingly suggested the idea of bringing white-ball rules into the red-ball format to reduce overstepping.

"I am no guardian of the rules, but if a free-hit comes, obviously, no-balls will definitely be reduced. No team would want to bowl those no-balls and give that extra ball and give those extra runs.

"Obviously, the take-off point is talked about. They understand what is happening and definitely a process will be put forward in terms of minimising it," he said.

Bahutule emphasised that the coaching staff remains focused on fixing the issue during practice sessions.

"I think the reminders are given during nets also. It is similar to a match situation. We take every session seriously, and it is monitored from the side.

"Sometimes, I stay as an umpire, and sometimes the other coaches stand as umpires. We are monitoring spinners and fast bowlers. So, we definitely give importance to it and work on it," he concluded.

India lead the two-match Test series 1-0.