Prasidh Krishna Vows to Sharpen Bowling After Leeds Setback: Focus on Economy and Lengths

Prasidh Krishna, the Indian bowler, is determined to refine his game following recent performances. With only four Test appearances, Krishna is particularly focused on lowering his economy rate, which currently stands at 5.07 after 90 overs.

After an expensive outing in Leeds, the 29-year-old Prasidh Krishna is keen to make amends © Getty

Krishna's economy rate became a significant concern after the defeat at Headingley, where he conceded 6.28 runs per over, while Shardul Thakur gave away 5.56. Their inability to maintain pressure as change bowlers exacerbated India's struggles once Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj completed their spells.

"Every time I come into bowl, I'm definitely looking to bowl a maiden," Krishna stated. He acknowledged that his lengths and lines were not accurate enough at Headingley. He added, "The outfield was fast, the lengths, lines that I bowled were not perfect to be honest at most times, and they took me on."

Krishna emphasized his commitment to taking wickets even if it means conceding runs initially. "If I sit back and say, 'I want to look at my numbers, what my economy is,' and not really look at the wickets, it cost me a 4 and a 6, and then Jamie Smith got out, so if it means that I do that and get a wicket, I'm happy to do it."

He aims to improve his economy and build pressure on the opposition. "I definitely would want to bring that [economy] down to whatever best I can do... it's my responsibility to get better, and that's what I'm trying, that's what I'm working on."

Analysis of Krishna's bowling lengths reveals that he bowled a significant number of deliveries short of a good length during the Test. While this approach yielded three of his five wickets, it also resulted in a high concession rate of 7.54 runs per over. Krishna explained that he was hesitant to bowl fuller deliveries that could be easily driven.

He admitted that his lengths in the first innings were too short, with the ideal length being in the 6-8 meter range. He felt he improved slightly in the second innings as the wicket slowed down. Krishna also attributed his inconsistent lengths to the difficulty in adjusting to the slope of the ground and accepted full responsibility for his performance.

With Jasprit Bumrah expected to miss at least two of the remaining four Tests due to workload management, Krishna faces increased pressure to perform both offensively and defensively.

Krishna highlighted the team's culture of mutual learning and continuous improvement. He noted that conversations with senior players like Bumrah are ongoing and valuable. While experience is crucial and can only be gained firsthand, Krishna expressed excitement about the opportunities ahead.

Beyond his bowling responsibilities, Krishna is also aware of the need to contribute more with the bat, especially after India's batting collapses at Headingley. The lower-order batsmen have been working diligently in the nets, and Krishna understands the importance of valuing his wicket and spending more time at the crease.

"As the lower order batsmen, we definitely are working on it... it is about putting your mind in there as well, making sure you trust yourself, trust the skill that you have, and be there at the crease for a little longer."