Prasidh Krishna conceded runs at an economy rate of over 6 runs per over in both innings of the Leeds Test. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan criticized Krishna for leaking too many runs during the opening match of the five-Test series against England. He highlighted that the Karnataka pacer’s economy rate was similar to Jasprit Bumrah’s in Twenty20 cricket.
On Tuesday, June 24, England won the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, by five wickets. Despite taking five wickets in total, Krishna conceded more than six runs per over in each of England’s innings.
While reviewing the match on Sony Sports, Prasidh Krishna was asked about Krishna’s two wickets in England’s second innings. He praised Prasidh Krishna for adjusting his length after being hit for a boundary on the first ball but emphasized the need to improve his economy rate.
“He changed his length. He was hit for a four off the first ball, a short and loose delivery. After that, he adapted his length to prevent drives and generated swing and late movement, which made him effective,” Pathan explained.
“However, if you look at his combined economy rate across both innings, he ranks second worst in history among fast bowlers. Bumrah’s economy rate in T20 cricket is around 6.50, so Krishna’s rate is comparable. He has great height and pace, but he must quickly learn to maintain a consistent line and length to control the run flow,” Pathan added.
In England’s first innings, Krishna took three wickets but conceded 128 runs in 20 overs at an economy of 6.40. In the second innings, he picked up two wickets for 92 runs in 15 overs, with an economy rate of 6.10.
Saba Karim Criticizes Prasidh Krishna’s Inconsistency
During a discussion, former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim echoed Irfan Pathan’s concerns regarding Prasidh Krishna’s bowling. He pointed out that the pacer often struggles with maintaining a consistent line and length.
“He’s conceding too many runs. That approach won’t be sustainable,” Karim said. “His performance improved in the second innings, where he bowled better across multiple spells. As Irfan mentioned, he adjusted his length, which helped. But even now, he often bowls too short or offers too much width.”
Karim further revealed that former India bowling coach Bharat Arun, who has worked with Prasidh, also flagged the same issue.
“I had a conversation with Bharat Arun, and he too sees this as an area of concern. Prasidh needs to improve quickly if he wants to succeed at the highest level,” he added.
So far, Prasidh Krishna has claimed 13 wickets in four Test matches. However, with an economy rate of 5.07, he will be keen to tighten his control and bring more discipline to his bowling.
