Cheteshwar Pujara Backs Bengaluru Pacer Prasidh Krishna After Galle Test Exploits

Former Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has praised Bengaluru fast bowler Prasidh Krishna for his adaptability and tactical discipline during India's 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, endorsing him as the national team's primary third seam-bowling option.

Prasidh earned a place in the playing eleven after premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the Test series. The Karnataka pacer made a strong impression by operating across 24 overs, conceding 63 runs and taking three wickets, including two key dismissals in the second innings while keeping runs in check.

Speaking during an interaction arranged by Sony Sports Network, Pujara highlighted the tall Bengaluru bowler's willingness to adjust his standard approach to suit subcontinental conditions. While Prasidh typically relies on hitting the deck from back-of-a-length around seven to eight metres to generate steep bounce, he adjusted his length to bowl fuller in Galle.

"Very impressed with the way Prasidh has been bowling. Not just in Tests but also white-ball cricket. He’s been improving a lot. He is willing to learn quickly and has been adapting to situations and conditions very well," Pujara said. He added that claiming two wickets in such conditions was equivalent to taking four or five on seam-friendly tracks.

Pujara noted that Prasidh's ability to adjust across formats solidifies his position in the Indian bowling hierarchy. "I agree he is our third seam bowling option after Bumrah and Siraj. He has the ability. And I am sure, not just in Tests alone, but also in India’s white-ball set-up, he will be one of the key factors going forward," he stated.

Pujara also addressed speculation regarding left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, urging the team management and captain to retain faith in him despite modest returns in the opening match, rather than handing an immediate debut to off-spinner Saransh Jain.