In the past, altitude differences have played a significant role in the outcome of voyages from India to South Africa.
As India gear up for the Test series against South Africa, the selection dilemma between Prasidh Krishna and Mukesh Kumar takes center stage. The choice was particularly important because Prasidh, at 6 feet 2 inches tall, had a significant height advantage over his counterpart. These factors could prove decisive in overcoming South Africa's difficult and dynamic conditions.
In the past, size differences played an important role in treatment outcomes India tour in South Africa. The Proteas, with their higher pace attack, often posed more of a challenge to the Indian batsmen. The difference in height of the ball's release point contributed to unpredictable bounce and made it difficult for batsmen to find balance, leading to India's series defeat.
Knowing this, the Indian team led by coach Rahul Dravid seems to have strategically included Prasidh Krishna in the team. The high cruise control, which has just debuted in testing, guarantees not only growth, but also skillful use to your advantage.
His extra height creates more bounces off the court, giving him more room for long errors and a greater opportunity to take advantage of surface conditions.
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Why Prasidh Krishna instead of Mukesh Kumar?
Prasidh's 12 first-class matches showed his effectiveness, taking 54 wickets at an impressive average of 17.29. His recent performance in the unofficial Test between India A and South Africa has further strengthened his belief that he should make his Test debut at the Centurion Stadium, a venue known for its variable batting as the match progresses.
What is unique about Prasidh's bowling is his ability to use his height strategically. Unlike some tall bowlers who tend to bowl shorter distances on bouncy tracks, Prasidh Krishna bowls good lengths consistently, leaving batsmen with a dilemma whether to go backwards or forwards. His energetic actions, reminiscent of a young Javagal Srinath, allow him to make ruthless catches and attack the ball in both directions.
In comparison, Mukesh Kumar, although a disciplined and efficient seaman, does not have the height advantage that Prasidh offers. Kumar, at 6 feet tall, is no match for Prasidh's powerful frame, and his delivery tends to skim the surface rather than bounce off it.
While Kumar can play the role of a workaholic third seamer, Prasidh's unique qualities, including his height, make him a promising choice for a show where such nuances can be winning.
As the Indian team mulls over its bowling combination for the Test, the selection of Prasidh Krishna could be a strategic move to overcome the historic challenges posed by the conditions in South Africa with a view to gaining a decisive advantage in the series future.
