Prasidh Krishna Vows to Sharpen Bowling Accuracy, Economy After Headingley Setback

Prasidh Krishna is determined to refine his bowling performance, specifically targeting his length and economy rate in future matches. The bowler acknowledges the need for improvement after a somewhat expensive outing.

Prasidh Krishna seeks to bounce back after a tough match in Leeds. © Getty

Despite featuring in only four Tests, Krishna's economy rate of 5.07 across 90 overs has become a focal point. He recognizes this as an area needing immediate attention.

Krishna's economy became a greater concern following 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 amplified the challenges for India, especially after Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj completed their spells.

"Each time I bowl, I aim to bowl a maiden over and avoid conceding boundaries," Krishna stated. "The fast outfield at Headingley and my imperfect lengths and lines contributed to the runs scored against me. Some were edges, and some resulted from attempted bouncers."

Krishna further elaborated, "Someone in the team had to take on the responsibility. If focusing solely on my economy rate meant sacrificing a few runs for a wicket, I was willing to do that. However, my overall goal is to keep the economy down and build pressure."

Reflecting on discussions with teammates, Krishna emphasized his commitment to improvement. "I want to reduce that economy rate as much as possible. It's my responsibility to improve, and I'm working towards that goal. I want to put in the necessary effort and come back with better numbers."

Krishna acknowledged his length was a key factor. At Headingley, a ground historically known to favor bowlers hitting the good length, he bowled 104 of his 211 balls short of that ideal length. While this yielded three wickets, it also resulted in a high concession rate of 7.54. Krishna attributed this overcompensation to his reluctance to bowl fuller deliveries that could be easily driven.

"In the first innings, I bowled shorter than intended, with the 6 to 8-meter length being ideal. The second innings was slightly better due to the slower wicket. I had to pitch slightly behind it and then go fuller when trying to get a wicket," Krishna explained.

He admitted, "I didn't consistently bowl the lengths I wanted. My reluctance to pitch it up was a factor, and it took time to adjust to the slope. I take full responsibility and aim to perform better next time."

With Jasprit Bumrah set to miss at least two of the remaining Tests due to workload management, Krishna recognizes the need to quickly assimilate these lessons. This places greater responsibility on him, both offensively and defensively.

"We have created a culture of learning from each other, regardless of who is present. Bumrah has been communicating with all of us, even before arriving here," Krishna noted.

"Having been part of this team for a few years, these conversations are ongoing. Experience is invaluable, and we are all excited. Siraj has played extensively and will continue to do so. Whoever comes in will gain great experience, and it's an opportunity for us all."

In addition to his bowling duties, Krishna is expected 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 is aware of the need to value his wicket more.

"As lower-order batsmen, we are definitely working on our batting. We are putting in the effort in the nets, focusing on trusting our skills and staying at the crease longer. The runs will come, and we are working towards that," Krishna concluded.