Indian batters to become part-time bowlers? Sairaj Bahutule responds

Team India's interim bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule said that the Indian batters will be seen bowling more often. The beginning of the Gautam Gambhir era has already seen Suryakumar Yadav, Rinku Singh bowling in T20Is and Shubman Gill in ODIs as well. The interim coach also suggested that it could be the way forward for the Indian team with the top order batters being asked to bowl as well.

Notably, Shubman Gill, a right-arm off-break, came to ball during the 32nd over, and he conceded 14 runs with a six and a four. Bahutule, however, showcased confidence in the Indian batters to contribute with the ball too whenever needed.

"I think our batters are good bowlers as well. Their primary skill is batting, so they don't focus much on bowling, but they have the skills," Bahutule said in the post-match press-conference. "The more they will practice. Whenever they will be given an opportunity. Like we saw in the T20Is, the way Rinku and Suryakumar contributed and made India win the match. Similarly, Shubman Gill was given an opportunity and, in the coming time, it is definitely going to be an all-rounder's game."

SEE ALSO: Rohit Sharma comments on his retirement plans after quitting T20Is

"But if in the top four or five, if someone can bowl, that definitely helps the team. Moving forward, you will see more contributions. I think we can use our bowlers as per the situation and the pitch conditions. Somebody who can bowl as a batter, it can be a surprise element for the opponent. So, moving ahead, there will be ample opportunities for the batters to bowl," he further added.

Suryakumar-Rinku's heroics with the ball

However, Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav did well for India during the 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka. When Sri Lanka needed 9 runs in las 12 balls, Rinku Singh was asked to bowl the penultimate over as he scalped two wickets while conceding just three runs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav then bowled the last over when just six runs were needed for Sri Lanka to win. However, by the end of 20 overs, the scores were same at 137 and India managed to win the Super Over in the game as well.