Gavaskar opposes free-hit rule for no-balls in Test cricket

Sunil Gavaskar rejected the introduction of free hits for no-balls in Test cricket in a Times of India report published on August 30, 2026.

He said free hits give batters unearned advantages and suggested escalating financial penalties for repeated infractions that could involve the bowler’s coach.

He also proposed that teams should be able to vote on additional penalties for on-field errors, encouraging a culture of accountability.