Sairaj Bahutule reveals the root cause behind Indian spinners' no-ball epidemic, says 'It happens when...'

India stands on the verge of victory in the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo, closing out Day 4 in a dominant position despite a premature halt due to heavy rainfall. Having enforced the follow-on, India need just four more wickets on the final day, with the hosts clinging to a meager 16-run lead. Although India are in a dominant position to seal the match, but their growing no-ball concerns certainly need to be addressed.

This is an area we are working on: Bahutule on Indian spinners' no-ball woes

During the post-day press conference, India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule addressed the team's recurring no-ball issue. The problem has persisted across the tour, with Ravindra Jadeja registering four no-balls in Galle and as many in Colombo, while debutant off-spinner Saransh Jain has conceded six across the series so far.

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Acknowledging that the errors can be frustrating, Bahutule reassured reporters that the coaching staff is actively correcting the flaw. He explained that overstepping often occurs when spinners strive to generate extra pace or effort on the ball, adding that the team is closely monitoring and adjusting the bowlers' approach to eliminate the issue.

“We are working on the no-balls. Yes, it is frustrating at times but be it Jadeja or Saransh or others, this is an area we are working on and are monitoring their game. It happens when a bowler is trying to put in extra effort,” Bahutule said.

“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," he added.

Beyond addressing overstepping, Sairaj Bahutule outlined India’s tactical blueprint for containing the Sri Lankan batting lineup. He explained that the spin trio, Jadeja, Manav Suthar, and Saransh Jain, operates with clearly defined responsibilities designed to strangle the run rate. According to the coach, Jain was instructed to bowl at a faster pace while Jadeja focused on locking down one end to maintain control, ensuring the hosts were denied easy scoring opportunities.

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Bahutule's words of praise for Saransh Jain, Manav Suthar

Bahutule had high praise for debutant Saransh Jain, acknowledging that the off-spinner earned his Test cap after years of relentless effort in domestic cricket. Acknowledging that debut nerves are natural, the coach commended Jain for maintaining a disciplined line and length. He highlighted Jain’s unique bowling style, noting that his reliance on side-spin rather than traditional overspin adds valuable variety to India's attack, a point reflected in his three wickets across both innings.

Addressing the strategy behind the match, Bahutule confirmed that the threat of impending rain made the decision to enforce the follow-on a no-brainer, with the entire bowling group fully backing the physical challenge. Lastly, he offered support to young spinner Manav Suthar, who found the second Test tougher than his breakout debut in Galle. Bahutule emphasized that managing high-scoring phases is simply a vital learning experience for the left-armer in just his third Test appearance