Ravichandran Ashwin Suggests The 'Mankad' Alternative

Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out with an alternative for the much-debated and heavily criticised 'mankading' mode of dismissal.

According to Ashwin, if a batsman at the non-striker's end is found getting out of the crease before the ball is delivered, the umpire can make it a free ball for the bowler.

"Make it a free ball for the bowler. If the batsmen (batsman) gets out of that ball, the batting team will be docked 5 runs. Free hit adds to the drama for a batter, let's give a chance to the bowlers too," Ashwin said in a tweet.

"As of now everyone watches the game hoping that 'the bowlers will get smacked today'," he added.

England batsman Buttler was 'mankaded' by Ashwin at a crucial moment in last year's season of the Indian Premier League during a match between Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals. The manner of the dismissal had created ripples across the cricketing fraternity and beyond, with many former greats of the game lambasting the Indian off-spinner for breaching the 'spirit of the game'.

Recently, Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting once again raised the issue by saying that he will have a conversation with Ashwin -- who will be playing for the Delhi-based franchise this season -- about 'mankading'.

Ashwin had earlier defended his decision to run out Buttler, saying his "conscience was clear". The IPL 2020 is slated to be played from September 19 to November 10 in the UAE.

Make it a free ball for the bowler. If the batsmen gets out of that ball, the batting team will be docked 5 runs. Free hit adds to the drama for a batter, let’s give a chance to the bowlers too. As of now everyone watches the game hoping that ‘the bowlers will get smacked today’ https://t.co/BxX8IsMgvF

— Ashwin