India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has suggested that introducing free hits in Test cricket could help reduce the number of no-balls, after India’s spinners struggled with overstepping during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Saransh Jain, playing his first Test, bowled several no-balls, while Ravindra Jadeja also overstepped. Bahutule explained that bowlers can sometimes push themselves harder when searching for wickets, particularly when breakthroughs are difficult to find. He said the team is aware of the issue and is working to address it.
“We are working on the no-balls. It is a concern, at times,” Bahutule told reporters. “When the bowler is putting in that effort, trying to see how he can create that opportunity and get a wicket in situations where wickets are not coming through, he has the tendency to push himself.”
Bahutule believes the prospect of a free hit could provide an additional deterrent. “I guess, if the free hit comes in, it will reduce the (no ball) percentage. But again, as I mentioned, there are times where they want to push themselves and see how they can get the best of their bowling in that particular situation,” he added. He also praised Jain’s effort on debut, highlighting his consistency despite the pressure of playing his first Test.
India dominate despite no-ball woes as Sri Lanka fight for survival in second Test match in Colombo
India remained in control of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo after enforcing the follow-on on Day 4, although the hosts showed greater resistance in their second innings. India had earlier declared on 503/9, built around centuries from Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel, before bowling Sri Lanka out for 290 to take a 213-run first-innings lead. Sri Lanka were then asked to bat again, and despite losing six wickets, they managed to reach 229/6 at stumps, giving them a 16-run lead. Pasindu Sooriyabandara top-scored with 92, while Kamindu Mendis contributed 55 before being dismissed by Saransh Jain.
The Indian spin attack again played a major role, with Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain and Ravindra Jadeja among the wickets. However, the bowlers' discipline became a talking point, as India's spinners collectively bowled 10 no-balls in the match. Jadeja was responsible for four no-balls three in the first innings and one in the second while debutant Saransh Jain bowled six. Despite the unwanted extras, India picked up regular wickets and kept Sri Lanka under pressure. Rain eventually brought an early end to play, leaving India needing four wickets to complete a victory while Sri Lanka faced a difficult final-day fight for survival.
