Prasidh Krishna Targets Sharper Bowling Lengths, Aims to Curb Run Rate

Prasidh Krishna, the Indian fast bowler, is determined to improve his bowling lengths and economy rate after acknowledging his recent performances fell short of expectations. With only four Tests under his belt, the 29-year-old is focused on addressing his economy rate of 5.07, a figure he considers too high.

Prasidh Krishna looks to bounce back after a costly spell in Leeds. © Getty

Identifying the Problem

Krishna's concerns stem from the Headingley Test, where his economy rate soared to 6.28, while Shardul Thakur conceded 5.56 runs per over. Their inability to maintain pressure as change bowlers exacerbated India's struggles once Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj completed their initial spells.

Taking Responsibility

"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 explained. He attributed his expensive spell to bowling imperfect lengths and lines, coupled with a fast outfield. He acknowledged some boundaries conceded were due to edges or mistimed bouncers.

Despite the challenges, Krishna emphasized his commitment to taking wickets even if it meant risking runs. "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."

Learning and Improving

Krishna has engaged in discussions with teammates and is determined to lower his economy rate. "I definitely would want to bring that [economy] down to whatever best I can do, and yeah, I think I'm learning as well, I can't say anything, 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."

Addressing Length Issues

Analysis of Krishna's bowling lengths revealed that he bowled a significant number of deliveries short of a good length during the Headingley Test. While this approach yielded three wickets, it also resulted in a high economy rate of 7.54. Krishna attributed this overcompensation to his hesitation to bowl fuller deliveries that could be easily driven.

He admitted his lengths in the first innings were too short and aimed for the ideal 6-8 metre length. While he improved in the second innings due to the slower wicket, he acknowledged the need to adjust his strategy.

Embracing the Challenge

With Jasprit Bumrah expected to miss at least two of the remaining four Tests due to workload management, Krishna recognizes the increased responsibility on his shoulders. He sees this as an opportunity to step up and contribute to the team's success.

Krishna emphasized the team's culture of learning from each other, with experienced players like Bumrah offering guidance. He acknowledged that experience is invaluable and expressed excitement about the opportunity to perform.

Contributing with the Bat

In addition to his bowling responsibilities, Krishna is also focused on improving his batting. Following India's batting collapses in the Headingley Test, the lower-order batsmen have been working hard in the nets. Krishna understands the importance of putting a higher price on his wicket and contributing valuable runs.

He stated that the lower-order batsmen are focused on trusting their skills, spending more time at the crease, and working towards contributing runs to the team's total.