"Catches win matches." Catches are an essential aspect of cricket, as they can change the momentum of a game and help a team gain an advantage. Now, the T20I World Cup is one of the most exciting cricket tournaments, where teams from around the world battle it out for the coveted title. In this article, we'll be taking a closer look at the top 10 South African players with the most catches in T20I World Cups. South Africa has a rich cricketing history, and it's fascinating to see which players have stood out in this particular aspect of the game. So, without further ado, let's dive into it.
1. AB de Villiers
On the first spot, we have AB de Villiers, who caught 23 catches in 25 innings during 2007-2016. AB de Villiers is a big name when it comes to batting in any format. The fit man was seen fielding in multiple positions and also played the role of wicketkeeper for some time.
2. David Miller
On number two, we have David Miller, with caught 11 catches in 18 innings during 2014-2022. The dangerous batter is also regarded as a very clean fielder who gets to the ball quickly and aims back at the stumps. He has made some incredible catches look effortless near the boundary.
3. Kagiso Rabada
Next up, we have Kagiso Rabada, who is primarily known for his fiery pace and exceptional bowling skills. Rabada has caught nine catches in 13 innings during 2016-2022. Being a fast bowler, he is often positioned near the boundary to quickly cover the gaps and get to the ball.
4. Graeme Smith
Moving ahead, we have Graeme Smith with nine catches in 16 innings of the 2007-2010 T20I World Cups. The former captain possessed exemplary leadership skills and was one of the best batters of his time. Smith was a great infielder, and his safe hands resulted in many catches and run-outs.
5. JP Duminy
Standing in the fifth position, we have JP Duminy. Duminy was a complete all-rounder with highly-rated batting skills, handy bowling capabilities, and an active presence on the field. During the T20I World Cups between 2007 and 2016, Duminy recorded nine catches under his name in 25 innings.
6. Dale Steyn
Making his way to number six, we have Dale Steyn, who has bagged eight catches in 23 innings of the T20I World Cup between 2009 and 2016. He is regarded as one of the best bowlers that the world has ever seen. The quick bowler was generally positioned near the boundary.
7. Albie Morkel
Albie Morkel takes away the seventh spot on the list with his eight catches in 25 innings. While featuring in 25 innings of the T20I World Cups between 2007 and 2014, Albie displayed his all-round skills to become a crucial member of the team. He, too, generally fielded near the boundary.
8. Faf du Plessis
The eighth place belongs to Faf du Plessis for his six catches in the nine innings of the 2012-2016 T20I World Cups. Hands down, Faf is one of the best fielders that South Africa would ever get. His agility in getting hold of the ball and his ability to take difficult catches are top quality.
9. Herschelle Gibbs
On the ninth spot, we have Herschelle Gibbs, who was one of the most talented and accomplished cricketers of his generation. Besides being a talented batter, he was an excellent fielder and took six catches in twelve innings during his T20I World Cup career between 2007 and 2010.
10. Roelof van der Merwe
Roelof van der Merwe takes away the final spot on this list with his five catches. These catches came in nine innings during the T20I World Cups of 2009-2010. Merwe was an aggressive batter and an effective spin bowler who had a lively presence on the field.
