India spin coach suggests free hits in Tests to reduce no-balls

India spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule suggested introducing free hits in Test cricket to reduce the number of no-balls bowled by spinners. Ravindra Jadeja has bowled 88 no-balls since 2021, more than any other spinner, prompting renewed focus on the issue during the Colombo Test. Bahutule said the team continues to work on take-off positions with Jadeja and debutant Saransh Jain but believes a rule change would help address the problem across the format.

The proposal comes after spinners bowled 10 no-balls in India's recent Test series against Sri Lanka. Bahutule praised Jain's composure on debut and his long domestic grind that prepared him for the highest level.

The coach emphasised that discipline remains a work in progress for the spin department. A rule change could provide the necessary deterrent for bowlers across all teams.