Bizarre new Indian tactic sparks controversy against Black Caps

Polarising India star Ravichandran Ashwin has debuted a bizarre new tactic during India's Test clash with New Zealand.

Ashwin has sparked controversy in the past for repeatedly claiming 'mankad' dismissals, and in September earned the ire of fans for running a single when a fielder's throw was deflected off his IPL batting partner Rishabh Pant.

Now he's pushing the boundaries of the rules once again. Late on day two and again on day three, the spinner debuted a diagonal run-up from around the wicket where his follow-through went directly across the umpire's line of sight and then in front of the nonstriking batter.

While it avoided the so-called 'danger zone' which bowlers and batters must not run across, his bizarre new action drew the ire of umpire Nitin Menon on Saturday.

Ashwin was warned during the 77th over of NZ's innings by Menon, as a running conversation commenced between player and umpire. It lasted until the end of the over, as India captain Ajinkya Rahane also joined the conversation to defend Ashwin's unusual actions.

During the lunch break, India coach Rahul Dravid and match referee Javagal Srinath were seen engaging in an intense discussion.

Ashwin returned to his usual approach and follow-up during the rest of the innings.

Commentator Simon Doull suggested Ashwin's follow-through was getting in the path of the nonstriker's running. "If the nonstriker wanted to run, Ashwin gets right in front of where the nonstriker would probably be running. And that is not allowed. The bowler can also not dictate where the nonstriker stands," Doull added.

Ashwin had also been warned the previous day by the same umpire for running through the middle of the pitch while he was batting.