R Ashwin: 'Have already talked' with Ricky Ponting over the phone about running out non-strikers

India and Delhi Capitals spinner R Ashwin says he has spoken to his IPL coach Ricky Ponting on the contentious issue of running out batsmen who back up too far at the non-striker's end, but will reveal the contents of the telephonic conversation only next week.

The issue became a talking point when Ponting, head coach of the Capitals, said he would have a "hard conversation" with Ashwin on the controversial manner of getting a batsman out, ahead of the IPL starting September 19 in the UAE.

"Ricky Ponting hasn't yet reached [Dubai]. After he comes, we will sit for a chat with him. He said he wants to have a conversation. We have already talked over the phone. It was a very interesting chat," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Ashwin said it's better to have a face-to-face conversation since the message of Australians can get lost in translation.

"What happens sometimes is Australians' messages in English get lost in translation and reach us with a different meaning. Even some of their jokes become news. That's what it is and next week I will reveal a bit more about my conversation with Ricky."

Like he did last month, Ashwin on Monday again suggested the introduction of a "free ball" for bowlers if non-strikers back up too far, sticking to his stand that there was nothing wrong with running such batsmen out.

"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," Ashwin had tweeted.

While representing Kings XI Punjab, Ashwin ran out England and Rajasthan Royals batsman Jos Buttler at the non-striker's end last IPL when he backed up too far, drawing criticism for his act as many called it against the "spirit of the game". While Ashwin has reached Dubai, Ponting is set to arrive next week.