In the game of cricket, taking the opposition wicket is of utmost importance. Something that is often gone under the radar is exceptional fielding. A good batsman will score runs in some matches, a good bowler will take wickets in some matches, but a good fielder will always stop extra runs and go the extra mile to take a catch. By stopping the runs, the fielder put intense pressure on the opposition, due to which the opposition is bound to make a blunder that can be capitalized on by the team. In today's fast-paced game, a good fielder is probably of more importance than a good batsman or bowler, as every run counts. The list contains ten such fielders who have outshined everyone and displayed unbelievable feats throughout their careers.
1. Ricky Ponting (80)
Australian Skipper tops the list with 80 runouts. His precision and quickness proved vital for his team. His sweetness between covers especially was remarkable. He took 80 runouts in 560 matches over the course of his 17-year career. He was one of the best. He would have picked up more, but he chose to become 1st slip during test matches.
2. Jonty Rhodes (68)
The name resonates with fielding, and it's no shock that this man takes the 2nd spot on the list. An exceptional fielder is given the title of Jonty Rhodes of his team. The man has taken some unbelievable catches and runs out throughout his career. Jonty Rhodes has picked up 68 runouts in 297 matches, a ratio better than pointing’s. He is arguably the best fielder the cricket world has seen.
3. Sanath Jayasuriya (63)
The veteran Sri Lankan captain is famous for his fierce batting, but his athleticism is also miles ahead of his competition. His poaching skill was on an unprecedented level, making the batsman fear risking a run. His elite athleticism paved the way for future Sri Lankan players such as Mahila Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara.
4. Tillakaratne Dilshan (57)
The creator of Dilscoop, Tillakaratne Dilshan, occupies the 4th spot. During his career, playing 422 matches, he made 57 runouts. He is quite a flexible fielder with accurate throws. He is also quick on his feet, able to cover a large gap in the field in a quick span. He is usually fielding in mid-off, where he has taken several wickets.
5. Steve Waugh (48)
The Australian skipper comes in at 5th. He was the architect behind Australia’s success and built the team from the core. He led the charge in batting and fielding, making a statement for the youngster. He was quite quick and took many athletic leaps. His precision and eagle-like eyesight hit the target on multiple occasions. He took 48 runouts throughout his illustrious career.
6. Yuvraj Singh (46)
The Indian all-rounder burst onto the scene with a bang, and the rest is history. His insane charisma and never-giving-up attitude show on the pitch. He dominates with both bat and ball and is one of his generation's finest fielders and one of India’s best. Over the course of his magnificent career, he has bagged 46 runouts, achieving the 6th spot on this list. His fielding became an example for the new generation, which has far exceeded its predecessor in fielding.
7. Herschelle Gibbs (43)
South African opener and legend Herschelle Gibbs scooped up the 7th spot. He has taken 43 runouts in 361 appearances. He started a revolution in the South African team, having an aggressive approach on the field. His precision throwing and speed were handy when he was placed at long on-off. He is the second South African to make the list, landing ahead of many greats of his era.
8. Virat Kohli (40)
The Indian skipper is a master at fielding. He already broke the record for the most catches taken by an Indian player. He and Ms.Dhoni completely shaped the new Indian training regime, which focuses on making players better fielders. Despite his age, he is the fastest and most accurate fielder on the team. The most memorable runout of his was when he run-out Shaun Marsh on 99. Kohli is one of the best fielder modern cricket has seen and India’s finest.
9. Paul Collingwood (35)
England skipper and batsman Paul Collingwood takes 9th place on this list. He led England to their first-ever ICC trophy by defeating Australia in the Champions Trophy. Under his leadership, England progressed, making accurate fielding and throws. He led by example, taking 35 runouts and numerous catches throughout his career. He was also quite a batsman, with an average of around 40 in both test and one day.
10. Ravindra Jadeja (29)
Nothing gets past him. He is a wall that stops everything. Arguably the best fielder currently, Jadeja takes the 10th spot. One of his career highlights includes- running out Robin Peterson of South Africa; his wicket changed the tide of the match in India’s favor. Jadeja makes the field look like a piece of cake. His swift movements and precise throws are a delight. Jadeja has 29 runouts as of the moment but will indeed accumulate more before his career comes to a halt.
