Top 10 Fielders in International Cricket (2024)
Fielding is often the unsung hero in cricket, yet it can be the difference between victory and defeat. The 2024 cricketing landscape is filled with athletes who have set the standard for modern fielding. This article delves into the top 10 fielders in international cricket as of 2024, exploring their impact, incredible feats, and key statistics. These players have redefined what it means to be a fielder, from stunning catches to game-changing run-outs.
1. Ravindra Jadeja (India)
Ravindra Jadeja is widely regarded as one of the best all-round fielders in world cricket. His remarkable agility, paired with a rocket arm, makes him a threat in both the inner circle and boundary. Jadeja’s direct hits have changed the course of matches, most notably his run-out of Ross Taylor in the 2019 World Cup. In 2023, his contributions in the World Test Championship and the ICC Cricket World Cup further solidified his legendary status.
• Key Moment: Watch Jadeja’s Best Catches Compilation on YouTube.
• Fielding Stats: Over 150 catches across formats, 35+ direct-hit run-outs.
2. Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner is known for his calm demeanor and safe hands. As of 2024, he leads the ICC World Cup in fielding impact, with key contributions in run-saving and catching. Santner’s reliable performances make him a vital asset to New Zealand, especially in tight ODI and T20 matches.
• Key Highlight: View Mitchell Santner’s Amazing Fielding Moments on YouTube.
• World Cup 2023 Impact: Top fielder with the most catches and run-saving moments .
3. Steven Smith (Australia)
In Test cricket, few match Steven Smith’s slip-catching prowess. Smith has been a vital cog in Australia’s slip cordon for years, known for taking sharp catches off both pace bowlers and spinners. His fielding awareness and positioning make him one of the best fielders in Test cricket history.
• Iconic Catch: Watch Smith’s Best Slip Catches.
• Stats: 130+ Test match catches.
4. Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)
Glenn Phillips is one of the most athletic fielders in cricket today. His incredible diving catches and speed across the outfield have earned him a spot among the world’s top fielders. Phillips is a T20 specialist, but his fielding has been a highlight across formats, making him an invaluable player for New Zealand.
• Must-Watch: Relive Phillips’ Top Fielding Moments.
• Notable Stat: 50+ catches in international T20s, with several match-winning saves .
5. Virat Kohli (India)
A leader both with the bat and in the field, Virat Kohli is just a few catches away from breaking major fielding records in the IPL. His commitment to fitness translates into dynamic fielding performances, whether diving to save boundaries or plucking catches out of thin air. Kohli remains a key fielder for India in all formats.
• Watch Highlights: Check out Kohli’s Best Fielding Moments.
• IPL Stats: Close to overtaking Suresh Raina as the highest catch-taker .
6. Ben Stokes (England)
Ben Stokes is synonymous with match-winning moments, and his fielding is no exception. His spectacular one-handed catch to dismiss Andile Phehlukwayo in 2019 remains a legendary fielding moment. Whether stationed in the deep or the slips, Stokes has a keen eye for game-changing catches.
• Stats: 85+ catches in ODIs, with numerous game-saving grabs.
7. David Warner (Australia)
Australia’s David Warner is renowned for his incredible outfield catching and aggressive ground fielding. Warner’s speed and anticipation make him a vital part of Australia’s fielding unit, often taking breathtaking catches near the boundary.
• Highlight Reel: Watch Warner’s Diving Catches.
8. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa)
Rassie van der Dussen is one of South Africa’s top fielders, particularly known for his strong throwing arm and catching in the outfield. His presence has been crucial for South Africa, especially in pressure situations.
• Key Fielding Stat: Over 60 catches in international cricket.
9. Hardik Pandya (India)
Hardik Pandya’s fielding abilities are often overshadowed by his all-round skills, but he’s one of the best outfielders in Indian cricket. Pandya’s powerful arm and catching ability make him a reliable fielder during crunch moments, particularly in limited-overs cricket.
• Must-Watch: Hardik Pandya’s Fielding Excellence.
10. Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)
Ravindra is quickly making a name for himself in the world of cricket, both with bat and ball, but his fielding has been outstanding. His performances in the 2023 Cricket World Cup showcased his ability to take sharp catches and stop runs from difficult positions.
Conclusion:
Fielding has become an essential part of the modern game, often turning the tide in close matches. These players not only shine with the bat or ball but also with their incredible fielding skills. The 2024 cricket season continues to be shaped by their ability to change games with athleticism, precision, and raw talent.
FAQs:
Q1. Who is the best fielder in cricket right now?
As of 2024, Ravindra Jadeja and Mitchell Santner lead the fielding charts, with Santner excelling in World Cup 2023 and Jadeja consistently dominating across all formats.
Q2. How do you measure a fielder’s impact in cricket?
Fielding impact is measured by the number of catches, run-outs, and run-saving efforts. Advanced metrics also account for the position of fielding and difficulty of the plays .
Q3. Who holds the record for the most catches in international cricket?
Players like Mahela Jayawardene and Ricky Ponting hold the record for the most catches in Test and ODI cricket, with Virat Kohli closing in on the IPL record .
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