India spin coach Bahutule backs Manav Suthar after expensive spell in Colombo

India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule said on Wednesday, August 26 after Day 4 of the second Test in Colombo that he had no concerns about Manav Suthar leaking runs during the match against Sri Lanka. Bahutule argued the experience would help the left-arm spinner and that Suthar was well prepared for the challenge.

Suthar, 25, has taken 22 wickets in the three Tests he has played but endured a difficult period on Day 4 when Sri Lankan batters targeted him. Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva attacked his bowling, hitting him for four sixes as he completed a 12-over opening spell without a wicket and conceding 65 runs at close to five an over.

He recovered strongly in a later spell, returning six overs in which he conceded 15 runs and claimed two wickets. His dismissals of Sooriyabandara and De Silva came in the final session and swung momentum towards India.

At the press conference after Day 4 Bahutule said: "It is an experience for him. This is just his third Test match. He is going to face different situations, as he is going to play along and he is well prepared for that, to be very honest. He knew that they were going to charge at him. He created those opportunities, but it didn't go in his favour in that period," said Bahutule.

He added: "He is definitely a learning cricketer. What I like about him is his resilience. It is fabulous. Regardless of the situation, whenever you throw the ball to him, he will give that 100 percent. He is very composed. He understands what is expected of him. The Lankan batters also did well against him today. In fact, they did play some good shots. But I am sure, again, the learnings from this game, he will take them forward. He will be better equipped when the same situation arises," he said.

Bahutule was particularly impressed by Suthar's resolve and his ability to bounce back after a difficult start.

Sri Lanka hold a lead of 16 after being forced to follow-on by India. They have four wickets remaining and Suthar will have a role to play in helping the visitors set up an easy target to win the second Test.