Colombo, August 26: India’s spin bowling coach, Sai Raj Bhathule, has revealed that efforts are underway to address the issue of bowlers overstepping during their bowling actions. He suggested that implementing a ‘free-hit’ rule in Test cricket could effectively eliminate this habit.
The issue of no-balls resurfaced during the ongoing second Test match against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground. Indian spinners overstepped 10 times in this match, marking the highest number of no-balls by any spin unit in a single match since 2021.
Questions have arisen regarding the frequent no-balls bowled by debutant off-spinner Saransh Jain and senior left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. This raises concerns about potential discipline issues during net sessions.
After the fourth day’s play, Bhathule addressed journalists in a press conference, stating, “We are working on this. It is a concern, but generally, when a bowler puts in maximum effort and tries to take wickets in challenging conditions, they tend to push themselves too hard. However, this is not an excuse. We have worked extensively with Jadeja and Saransh on where their take-off point should be.”
When asked if focusing too much on specific deliveries causes bowlers to overstep, Bhathule replied, “Sometimes, they exert a bit more force for that particular delivery and end up overstepping. I am confident they will correct this and perform better.”
Regarding how to eliminate no-ball errors in Test cricket, the former Indian leg-spinner humorously suggested a penalty system borrowed from limited-overs formats. He remarked, “I am not a guardian of the rules, but if the ‘free-hit’ rule is implemented, no-balls will certainly decrease. No team would want to bowl a no-ball that results in extra deliveries and runs. Clearly, the take-off point is a discussion point. They understand what is happening, and a process will be adopted to reduce it.”
Bhathule dismissed claims that there is a lack of strict monitoring during net sessions. He stated, “Even during net sessions, reminders are given. It simulates match conditions. We take every session seriously; it is monitored from the side view. Generally, it is overseen. Sometimes I stand as an umpire, along with other coaches. We keep an eye on both spinners and fast bowlers. Therefore, we certainly prioritize this and work on it.”
Leave a Comment