Prasidh Krishna Eyes Bowling Refinement: Sharper Lengths, Tighter Economy Key to Test Success

Prasidh Krishna, the Indian fast bowler, is focused on enhancing his bowling performance, specifically targeting better lengths and a reduced economy rate in Test cricket. With four Test matches under his belt, the right-arm bowler is determined to address his economy rate of 5.07, which he considers a key area for improvement.

Prasidh Krishna looking to bounce back after expensive spell in Leeds © Getty

Krishna's economy became a significant concern during the defeat at Headingley, where he conceded runs at 6.28 per over, while Shardul Thakur went at 5.56. Their inability to maintain pressure as first change bowlers amplified India's challenges after the spells of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

"Every time I come into bowl, I'm definitely looking to bowl a maiden and I'm not really trying to give away boundaries or anything," Krishna stated. He acknowledged that his lengths and lines were not consistently accurate at Headingley, leading to batsmen taking advantage. He attributed some of the high scoring to edges and his attempts at bowling bouncers.

Despite the challenges, Krishna is committed to taking wickets, even if it means risking runs. "So I think somebody in the team had to do it, and 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 emphasizes his focus on keeping the economy down and building pressure.

Krishna revealed that he's been having conversations with the team about his game. "I had a few conversations with a few of them about this game. I definitely would want to bring that [economy] down to whatever best I can do, and yeah, I think I'm learning as well." He added, "It's up to me, it's my responsibility to get better, and that's what I'm trying, that's what I'm working on."

Adjusting Bowling Lengths

The lengths bowled by Krishna have been closely analyzed. At Headingley, known to favor bowlers hitting the good length area (6-8 meters), Krishna bowled a significant number of balls short of a good length – 104 out of 211. While this approach yielded three wickets, it also resulted in a high concession rate of 7.54 runs per over. Krishna explained that his tendency to bowl shorter was partly due to his reluctance to bowl fuller and risk being driven easily.

"No, I think if I look at the first innings, I was a little too short than where I wanted to be, that 6 to 8 [metre length] is ideal." He noted slight improvements in the second innings due to a slower wicket, requiring him to adjust his pitching. Krishna accepted responsibility for not bowling the desired lengths, citing his unfamiliarity with the slope as a contributing factor. "I take complete responsibility about it, and maybe I'll do it better next time."

Stepping Up in Bumrah's Absence

With Jasprit Bumrah expected to miss at least two of the remaining four Tests, Krishna understands that more responsibility falls on his shoulders, both in terms of attacking and defensive bowling.

Krishna acknowledges the importance of learning from experienced players like Bumrah. "What the culture that we guys have created is we are learning off each other, no matter who's there, who's around. He's [Bumrah] been talking to all of us all though, even before coming here."

He highlights the team's experience and the opportunity for growth. "At least for me, I've been part of this team for a few years now, so the conversations are still going on. One thing you cannot get is experience, that you have to do it yourself."

Contributing with the Bat

In addition to his bowling duties, Krishna is also aware of the need to contribute with the bat, especially after India's batting collapses at Headingley. The lower-order batsmen have been working hard in the nets.

"As the lower order batsmen, we definitely are working on it... if you look at our nets session, we are putting in the work, I think 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." He believes that with focused effort and self-belief, runs will follow.