During the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, Indian spinners bowled several no-balls, which elicited harsh criticism from former India captain Sunil Gavaskar. After the games, Gavaskar emphasised the need for immediate action to solve the persistent problem of overstepping at the crease, which became a major topic of conversation.
In his thorough commentary, Sunil Gavaskar voiced his worries, stressing that bowlers have direct control over what they do at the crease. He claimed that there should be no justification for crossing the bowling crease given the availability of contemporary measurement instruments for marking run-ups. The former opener noted that two of the few things of cricket that a player can completely control are staying alert and avoiding no-balls.
Why was the free-hit method rejected by Sunil Gavaskar?
Free-hits could help discourage no-balls in Test cricket, according to a light-hearted suggestion made by India’s spin bowling coach. At a time when the game already favours hitting through other constraints, Gavaskar vehemently rejected this notion, claiming that it would make it easier for batters to score runs. He cited current regulations that have already favoured the batting side.
Sunil Gavaskar suggestions for team discipline and fine structure
Instead, Gavaskar suggested using money to address the persistent problem of no-balls. He proposed imposing fines that would rise with each subsequent infraction, as well as a penalty for the bowling instructor equal to half the player’s fine. He intended to use the fines gathered to pay for the team’s farewell supper before players left.
Sunil Gavaskar described a more comprehensive system for team discipline using monetary fines in addition to no-balls. Other on-field infractions, such not backing up for a throw, he said, can also result in fines. Gavaskar suggested that the entire squad cast a vote on whether to apply such sanctions, transforming the procedure into a team-building exercise that would improve cohesiveness.
