Tendulkar helping Sree, Ishant with no-ball problem

By: Agni Pandey Date: 2010-11-13 Place: Hyderabad

Eric Simons is India's bowling coach but it is master batsman Sachin Tendulkar who is working closely with struggling fast bowlers Ishant Sharma and S Sreesanth. MiD DAY has learnt that Tendulkar is spending several hours with both bowlers to try and rectify their recurring issues with bowling no-balls.

Against Australia and in the ongoing series against New Zealand, both have overstepped the popping crease on more than a few occasions, a fact that is disconcerting Tendulkar. Bowling coach Simons acknowledged Tendulkar's involvement: "We were talking about the no-ball issue with a lot of seriousness. Tendulkar told the bowlers that bowling a no-ball will affect their minds. Hence, it is imperative that we sort this problem out. Also, since he is such a senior person in the dressing room, his words are taken very seriously. People always listen to what he has to say," Simons told reporters. Yesterday, Sreesanth dismissed Martin Guptill off a no-ball. Simons may have some serious questions thrown at him if the problem continues in the Test series. "We are working tirelessly in the nets, hopefully we can solve it quickly." Sreesanth, who finished with figures of 1-60 yesterday, said Tendulkar's tips were helpful. "Yes, Sachinpaji spoke to us, gave some useful tips. We are very happy and will always follow his instructions," said the Kerala bowler.