1st Test: Keeping ball dry crucial for getting reverse swing in SL, says Prasidh

Galle, Aug 17 (IANS) India pacer Prasidh Krishna said maintaining the shine and dryness of the ball will be vital for fast bowlers seeking reverse swing in humid Sri Lankan conditions in the ongoing first Test at the Galle International Stadium, adding that the team is relying on simple, disciplined lengths to make an impact.

India will need extra effort required from both bowlers and fielders to keep the ball in condition for movement off the deck after being bowled out for 462 in their first innings. “It is definitely tough. I think that’s where the fielders and everybody comes in to keep the ball dry, help the bowlers. Touch the ball the least when they’re running in, only hold it and then run it.

“But I think that’s the skill as well. As bowlers, you need to find a way, maybe some wristbands, some towels behind your back all the time. So something like that is going to work,” Prasidh said in a chat with the broadcasters.

He also quashed talk of the surface deteriorating rapidly, noting that the visitors are closely observing how the hosts bowling attack operated during their spells. “There hasn’t been a talk about it breaking up. We’ve been looking at the pitch as well. It doesn’t really look like it’s broken yet. But we’re looking at the areas that the Sri Lankan bowlers bowled. They did a good job at different sessions, so we’re just trying to learn from them.”

On the tactical adjustments needed on subcontinental tracks, the Bengaluru-based fast bowler stated that executing basic line and length remains the primary weapon. “That is the most important thing. I think length determines a lot. Even the lines, honestly, in this wicket, if you can bowl a good line and length, which everybody, every coach tells you, but that’s the simplest thing that we can do right here.”

Beyond technical execution, Prasidh highlighted the responsibility of the pace unit to maintain team morale and energy during long, taxing stints in the field. “It’s about bringing in a good attitude as fast bowlers. I know we bring in a lot of energy and happiness among the group when you come in and bowl those hard yards and do whatever you do on the field. So I think that’s what we’re looking to do.”

With crucial points up for grabs in the World Test Championship cycle, Prasidh insisted the India team is keeping its focus locked on immediate sessions rather than getting ahead of itself.

“Definitely. I think all the games coming up, you’re just trying to be very intent in what we’re going to do, be intense when we’re on the ground. So make sure you tick one day, one session at a time, and then look at the bigger picture later,” he concluded.

–IANS

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