India's interim bowling coach plans to utilize batters as surprise bowlers

India’s interim bowling coach, Sairaj Bahutule, has revealed that fans can expect to see more Indian batters taking up bowling duties in upcoming matches. Under the new head coach, Gautam Gambhir, players like Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh have already been seen bowling in the T20I series.

In the first ODI against Sri Lanka, Shubman Gill was given a chance to bowl. Despite conceding 14 runs in the 32nd over, including a six and a four, Bahutule suggested that utilizing batters as bowlers is the way forward for the Indian team.

At the toss, captain Rohit Sharma was asked if he would bowl, but he stated that the team already had a strong bowling lineup. However, Bahutule believes that the batters have untapped potential as bowlers. 

"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, 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,” Bahutule said.

Bahutule emphasized the importance of having top-order batters who can bowl, as it adds flexibility and surprise elements to the team. 

"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.