India Eyes Series Comeback Against England; Prasidh Krishna Confident Despite Bumrah's Limited Role

Following a setback in the opening Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England at Headingley, Leeds, the Indian cricket team is focused on regrouping and addressing areas for improvement. Despite the loss, which gave England a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, the team remains optimistic and determined to bounce back.

Prasidh Krishna shares a moment with Jasprit Bumrah during a practice session.

A key point of discussion has been the management of Jasprit Bumrah's workload. Head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Bumrah would participate in only three of the five Tests, a decision made prior to the series' commencement. "Haven’t decided which two matches Bumrah will play, but he will play a total of three. We need to manage his workload. The scoreline doesn’t change that… he will play three Tests only," Gambhir stated after the match, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing Bumrah's fitness throughout the series.

In Bumrah’s absence, fellow pacer Prasidh Krishna sees an opportunity to step up and contribute. Prasidh emphasized the positive team environment and the continuous learning process within the squad.

"What a culture we guys have created. We are learning from each other, no matter who's there or who's around. And with Booms (Bumrah) around, he's been talking to all of us throughout, even before coming here," Prasidh told reporters in Birmingham. He highlighted the value of Bumrah's guidance and the collective effort to improve as a unit.

Prasidh further elaborated on the team's approach, stating, "If you look at the team, everybody is here. Siraj has played a lot of games, he's going to continue playing, and whoever comes in — or whatever happens later — it's a great experience and an opportunity. That’s the way we look at it." This underscores the team's focus on utilizing every opportunity for growth and development.

Despite the defeat, Prasidh dismissed any notions of negativity within the dressing room. "The dressing room is still positive, happy, and very, very motivated. Like I said, we came here knowing what this opportunity meant for all of us. And even in the game today, we might have looked quiet at times, but I think we still had a plan," he asserted. He highlighted the team's unwavering belief and determination to fight until the very end.

Prasidh Krishna Aims for Improvement

Reflecting on his own performance, Prasidh acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly in his economy rate. He acknowledged, "I definitely want to bring that number down — to the best I can. And I think I’m learning as well. It’s on me — I can’t say anything else. It’s my responsibility to get better, and that’s what I’m trying. That’s what I’m working on. I just want to make sure I put in the right kind of work and come back here with better numbers."

He further explained his strategy, saying, "Every time I come out to bowl, I’m definitely looking to bowl a maiden. I’m not really trying to give away boundaries or anything... But yes, every time I bowl, I’m looking to keep the economy rate down and build pressure."

Prasidh Praises Captain Gill

Prasidh also shared his thoughts on Shubman Gill's captaincy, this England series is Gill’s first as India’s Test captain after Rohit Sharma’s retirement. Prasidh has already played under Gill at Gujarat Titans.

"About Shubman — yeah, I think he did a pretty good job. All of us saw how he rotated the bowlers, made sure everyone got enough breaks, and brought bowlers in at the right times. He spotted opportunities and used the right bowlers accordingly... And knowing him, he created a very good atmosphere around the team," Prasidh stated, highlighting Gill's tactical acumen and leadership qualities.