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England and India’s ongoing battle for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval delivered its share of gripping drama on Day 4 of the fifth Test. In the heat of contest, while most focus rested on the scoreboard and standout performers, former India captain Ajay Jadeja spotlighted what he considered a rare gem in India’s bowling arsenal. Jadeja’s remarks on Sony Liv’s show underscored more than just numbers—they spoke of bowling artistry, mental resilience, and the overlooked narrative within India’s fast-bowling options.
Ajay Jadeja lauds Indian pacer for his fiery spell on Day 4 of the fifth Test
Jadeja, renowned for his cricketing acumen, didn’t shy away from declaring Prasidh Krishna as “the most special bowler” in India’s attack—even ahead of prominent names like Mohammed Siraj. Krishna’s figures—3/109 in 22.2 overs—don’t immediately leap off the page. But, as Jadeja pointed out, it was the relentless questions Krishna posed with each delivery that truly turned heads. After being sidelined in a previous Test for Anshul Kamboj, Krishna had every reason to feel the pressure; instead, he thrived under it, bending his back with intent and energy.
Jadeja vividly recalled Krishna’s impactful bursts: claiming Ben Duckett caught by KL Rahul, bowling Jacob Bethell, and dismissing the imperious Joe Root after Tea. Even when handed the difficult task of bowling short with defensive fields, Krishna’s focus and skill remained unwavering. Jadeja highlighted not only Krishna’s tactical nous but also his mental fortitude—qualities that are often the hallmark of future leaders in the attack. For Jadeja, the real story was how Krishna, despite setbacks and selection doubts, delivered when it counted, making his case through action, not just promise.
India’s pacers leave everything on the field
Alongside Krishna, Siraj’s fiery spells also earned Jadeja’s applause. “It was enjoyable to watch Mohammed Siraj’s effort and the endurance Prasidh Krishna showed, and the heart they showed,” Jadeja remarked, emphasizing both performance and persistence. Siraj’s 2/95 in 26 overs and Krishna’s sustained velocity embodied the selfless energy India needed amid fluctuating fortunes. Key moments—like Akash Deep’s late wicket of Harry Brook—helped swing momentum, but it was the ceaseless discipline of Krishna and Siraj that provided hope and excitement for fans.
Jadeja’s words revealed a deeper appreciation for the grind and the grit that bowlers must demonstrate on long, wearing days. In his eyes, at no stage did Krishna or Siraj “get tired or slacken in intensity.” They bowled as if the day’s outcome was still unwritten, fueling the contest’s unpredictability and reminding all of the emotional and physical investment cricket demands at this level.
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