India coach suggests free-hits in Tests to stop no-balls

Indian spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has suggested introducing free-hits in Test cricket to address the persistent issue of no-balls, a problem that has plagued Indian spinners in the ongoing second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Indian spinners have bowled 10 no-balls so far in the match, the most by a spin attack since 2021.

Bahutule said at the post-day press conference that the team is working on the issue, monitoring bowlers' take-off points in nets, with coaches standing as umpires. He noted that bowlers sometimes overstep while putting in extra effort to take wickets, but said it is not an excuse.

The coach admitted his free-hit suggestion was made partly in jest, adding: '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.' He said remedial work is underway with bowlers including Ravindra Jadeja.