‘Please, let’s not’: Gavaskar rejects free-hit idea in Tests after India’s no-ball problem

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has dismissed the notion of introducing free hits in Test cricket to address the rising issue of no-balls. This proposal emerged following India's inability to secure a 2-0 series victory over Sri Lanka in the second Test in Colombo. Despite needing just four wickets on the final day to clinch the series, India was thwarted by Sonal Dinusha's unbeaten century, which led to a draw and kept their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final alive.

The series did, however, highlight the growing problem of no-balls bowled by India's spinners, with Ravindra Jadeja and debutant Saransh Jain collectively delivering over 85 no-balls since 2021. Gavaskar firmly believes that such a move would unfairly benefit batters, as no-balls are one of the few aspects of the game entirely within a player's control.

He argues that with the current restrictions on bouncers and boundaries, there should be no excuse for overstepping the bowling crease. Instead of altering the rules, Gavaskar proposes implementing financial penalties for bowlers who repeatedly overstep, with the fines accruing for the entire team and even being used to fund a final team dinner.

Gavaskar also suggests expanding the concept to include other on-field mistakes, allowing teams to collectively decide on penalties through voting. This approach, he believes, could foster a more accountable and engaged team dynamic.