Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has launched a sharp critique of fast bowler Prasidh Krishna following his underwhelming performances in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. Kaif's comments come after Krishna proved expensive in the first two matches, putting a spotlight on the pacer's form and skillset.
Expensive Spells Draw Criticism
Prasidh Krishna's figures have made for grim reading in the series. Across the first two ODIs, he conceded a hefty 133 runs while managing to take only three wickets. His struggles were particularly evident in the second match in Raipur on December 6, 2025, where India failed to defend a massive target of 359 runs.
In that high-scoring contest, Krishna was the most expensive bowler in the Indian attack. He leaked 85 runs in his 8.2 overs, picking up just two wickets as South Africa clinched a four-wicket victory. Earlier, in the first ODI in Ranchi, he had managed only one wicket from 7.4 overs.
Kaif Questions Krishna's Awareness and Skill
In a candid video posted on his YouTube channel, Mohammed Kaif did not hold back in his assessment. He pointed out that Krishna's tendency to concede runs is not a new issue, referencing his previous Test performances in England.
"Prasidh was expensive even in the Tests in England. He leaks runs," Kaif stated. He delivered a damning verdict on the bowler's self-awareness, adding, "He is a bowler who does not know his strengths. He is not extremely skilled in any one area."
Kaif identified a key technical shortfall, noting that while Krishna's strength is hitting the deck hard, he lacks variation. "His strength is to hit the deck, but he does not bowl slower ones. This is the only thing he knows," the former batsman and renowned fielder explained.
The IPL and International Cricket Gap
Kaif also highlighted the significant gap between domestic T20 leagues and the international arena. He acknowledged that the 29-year-old bowler had worked on some variations during the Indian Premier League (IPL), but stressed that international cricket demands a higher level of skill and adaptability.
"He did work a bit on the variations in the IPL. But international cricket is different," Kaif remarked. Offering a slight concession, he mentioned the challenging conditions in Raipur, where a wet ball made bowling difficult. "The ball was very wet, so maybe we can give him the benefit of the doubt. It is difficult to bowl with a wet ball for inexperienced bowlers. Here is where you need experienced bowlers," Kaif concluded, implying that the situation called for more seasoned campaigners.
The criticism from a respected figure like Kaif puts immense pressure on Prasidh Krishna to reflect and refine his game. With the ODI series poised delicately, the Indian team management will have to decide whether to persist with the Karnataka pacer or look for other options in the bowling department.
