Prasidh Krishna Shines Amid Criticism, Supported by World Cup Champions

Prasidh Krishna delivered a commendable performance during the third One Day International (ODI) against South Africa in Visakhapatnam on December 6, 2025, helping India secure a series-deciding victory. Despite facing significant criticism from fans and analysts in the lead-up to the match, Krishna’s efforts alongside Kuldeep Yadav restricted South Africa to a total of 270 runs.

The 29-year-old fast bowler faced intense scrutiny after a string of underwhelming performances. However, he rebounded effectively in a high-pressure situation, taking four wickets for 66 runs in 9.5 overs. His performance was pivotal in limiting South Africa’s scoring, particularly during a crucial second spell where he dismissed key players, including the centurion Quinton de Kock.

Support from Cricketing Greats

Krishna’s resilience did not go unnoticed, attracting praise from former Indian cricketers and World Cup winners. Ravichandran Ashwin was among the first to offer support, highlighting Krishna’s potential despite recent setbacks. On social media, Ashwin commented, “Prasidh showing the quality he possesses. It’s always easy to write people off when they have bad days, but given a good run, quality will always shine through.” He added that with time, Krishna would develop a better understanding of his game, leading to more consistent performances.

Another former cricketer, Irfan Pathan, also voiced his support, tweeting, “This is exactly why I was backing Prasidh Krishna to play. He has that X factor. Three crucial wickets. Well done.” Both Ashwin and Pathan’s endorsements reflect a belief in Krishna’s abilities, especially when faced with criticism.

Turning Point in the Match

Krishna’s impressive turnaround began after a challenging start, where he struggled against De Kock, who scored 106 runs off 89 balls. In his initial overs, Krishna was hit for 18 runs, including six and four boundaries. However, he quickly regained his composure, claiming the wickets of Matthew Breetzkle and Aiden Markram in quick succession.

The momentum shifted dramatically when Krishna dismissed De Kock, who misjudged a full-length delivery, resulting in a clean bowled. This hat-trick of wickets within three overs left South Africa precariously positioned at 199 for five. Following Krishna’s impactful spell, Kuldeep Yadav took the reins, finishing with impressive bowling figures of four wickets for 41 runs, as South Africa ultimately fell short of a competitive total.

Krishna’s ability to bounce back under pressure solidifies his position within the Indian squad, illustrating that perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to success. His performance against South Africa not only showcased his talent but also served as a reminder of the importance of support from peers in sports.