India's stand-in bowling coach Sunil Joshi confirmed on Saturday that leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi has made targeted adjustments to his run-up alignment — not his action — to address the back-foot no-ball issues that have troubled the bowler in recent outings. The disclosure came at the pre-match press conference ahead of the second T20I against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club, with India holding a 1-0 series lead.

What Changed in Bishnoi's Approach

'He hasn't changed anything in his action. He has re-aligned it in the run-up a little bit,' Joshi told reporters. 'We've also communicated with Sairaj Bahutule (spin bowling coach). So, we've had good conversations with him. Eventually, we've seen that he's not even going close to the return crease also, which is very pleasing for him, honestly, and for us also.'

The corrective work was carried out jointly by Joshi and spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule. Crucially, the tweak is positional rather than mechanical — preserving Bishnoi's natural action while eliminating the overstepping tendency.

The No-Ball Problem That Cost India at Manchester

Bishnoi's back-foot no-balls had emerged as a pressing concern during India's tour of England, most notably in the Manchester T20I earlier this month, where the infringement directly contributed to an Indian defeat. The Zimbabwe series, following winless outings in Ireland and England, presented an opportunity for the squad — and Bishnoi individually — to reset.

Joshi Praises Team's Bounce-Back in Series Opener

Reflecting on India's series-opening win, Joshi credited the players' resilience after a demanding touring schedule. 'I know it was a hectic series in Ireland and England. So, coming back and then traveling, we've got to give credit to the players also. Coming back here, it's important to understand that win is a must, which has happened. I'm very pleased with the bowling performances of all the bowlers,' he said.

This is the first series win India has registered since the back-to-back defeats, making the result in Zimbabwe particularly significant for squad confidence.

Mayank Yadav and Ashok Sharma Impress Joshi

The stand-in coach also highlighted the form of pacer Mayank Yadav and young fast bowler Ashok Sharma as encouraging signs for India's pace bowling depth. 'Even though Mayank played in 2024, it's very pleasing for everyone. He has come back very strong and been consistent. His rhythm has been very good,' Joshi noted.

On Ashok Sharma, Joshi pointed to the bowler's effective showing in Sri Lanka as evidence of his growing readiness. 'It's a good thing for the Indian fast bowling pool that we have so many fast bowlers. At the right time, at the right situation, at the right moment, we have to utilise them,' he added.

Mindset Over Conditions

Joshi signed off with a broader message on adaptability, dismissing the notion that touring conditions require fundamental changes to bowling plans. 'Whether you play in Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe or England, your line and length doesn't change. So, we have to focus on that. Be mindful of what sort of a batter, what sort of a situation you are in and then, be aware and react to the situations,' he said.

With the second T20I at Harare Sports Club set for Saturday, India will look to extend their lead to 2-0 and build on the momentum of a series that has doubled as a rehabilitation exercise for several members of the squad.