Fielding is an art that often goes unnoticed, but it can make all the difference between winning and losing a cricket match. The Indian cricket team has produced some exceptional fielders over the years, known for their lightning-fast reflexes, incredible athleticism, and commitment to saving every single run.
Top 10 Best Men’s Indian Fielders of all Time
10. Ajinkya Rahane
India has always managed to find natural replacements in the slip fielding area during every transition period. After the significant red-ball transition in the early 2010s, the team needed reliable slip fielders following the exits of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, and that’s when Ajinkya Rahane stepped up.
Rahane became a constant presence in the slips for nearly ten years, proving to be one of the most dependable fielders there. His gentle hands and remarkable reflexes made him an ideal fit for the role, and he had a significant impact while performing it.
ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Diet and Training
9. Mohammad Azharuddin
Mohammad Azharuddin, a right-handed batter known for his elegance and style, also brought those qualities into his fielding. He was especially famous for his outstanding skills in the slip cordon and is considered one of the best fielders India has ever had.
During his time, Azharuddin’s athleticism made him stand out, especially since being athletic wasn’t as essential as it is today. The former captain took a total of 261 catches, placing him third on the list for the most catches by an Indian player in international cricket.
8. Robin Singh
Robin Singh is often credited with elevating the standard of fielding in Indian cricket. What might look ordinary today was quite extraordinary during the 90s. He wasn’t afraid to dive to stop the ball, and these efforts were highly appreciated, making him the best Indian fielder of his time and one of the world’s finest back then.
It was no surprise when he became the fielding coach for the Indian national team from 2007 to 2009. Robin took 33 catches in ODIs, and his partnership with Ajay Jadeja on the field was thrilling to watch. Together, they set a strong foundation and benchmark for future Indian fielders.
7. Eknath Solkar
Eknath Solkar might not be a familiar name to many, but he was one of the first Indian cricketers known for his exceptional fielding skills. He took 53 catches in just 27 matches, which is impressive, considering how often one might think of a wicketkeeper making such catches. However, Solkar wasn’t a wicketkeeper.
He had a rare talent for being a threat at short leg, and this was during a time when fielders didn’t have much protective gear. This made him a true legend in fielding. The short leg position was risky but extremely important for India, given their reliance on spin bowlers. While his efforts may not have gained the same fame as Jonty Rhodes’ spectacular dives and run outs, Solkar’s impact and legacy in cricket are undeniable.
6. Virat Kohli
The man who gave importance to India’s fielding and took it to a new level, Kohli, set an example with his own performances on the field. After improving his fitness, he turned into a fielding powerhouse.
With lightning-quick runs near the boundary, sharp reflexes, and natural athletic ability, he kept pace with his teammates as the standards of fielding continued to rise.
5. Yuvraj Singh
Yuvraj Singh had a tall and athletic build, making it hard to imagine him being a poor fielder. He had the physical traits needed to excel in fielding, and he made sure not to waste them. The all-rounder worked hard to become one of the best fielders India has ever seen. Instead of being content with the team’s average standards during his time, he pushed the boundaries by giving importance to fielding.
Throughout his career, Yuvraj took many unforgettable catches and made important stops, whether positioned at point, mid-off, or anywhere in between.
ALSO READ: Top 10 Greatest Colombian Football Players
4. Mohammed Kaif
It’s hard to mention Yuvraj Singh without also mentioning Mohammed Kaif when talking about fielding. Just like how partnerships exist in batting and bowling, Yuvraj and Kaif worked together to block anything that came their way, doing whatever it took.
Kaif’s slim build made him agile, allowing him to sprint effortlessly across the field. His amazing athletic skills worked in his favor, and his fielding abilities were considered as important as his batting, which helped him secure a regular spot on the team.
3. Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid, who holds the record for most catches by an Indian fielder, established himself as one of the most versatile players in cricket history. His sharp judgment in the slips, excellent fielding at close positions, and skills as a wicket-keeper make him one of the finest fielders India has ever produced.
Dravid significantly contributed to Anil Kumble’s and Harbhajan Singh’s successful careers by taking numerous catches off their bowling. The ease with which he took difficult catches highlighted his true greatness as a fielder.
2. Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina, a favorite among fans, wasn’t as explosive as some of the other top fielders of his time. However, he made up for it with his dependability and sharp instincts. One great example is his catch to dismiss Younis Khan during the 2012 Asia Cup.
Despite not having a tall build to easily dominate key fielding positions or the edges of the circle, Raina was still a strong presence, rarely missing any catching chances.
Even after retirement, Raina hasn’t lost his fielding skills, continuing to shine while playing in the Road Safety Series or the Legends League Cricket.
1. Ravindra Jadeja
When it comes to pure talent and overall fielding skills, Ravindra Jadeja is arguably the best. If people from the past had to imagine the perfect fielder, it would likely be Jadeja because he was excellent in every aspect of fielding.
Jadeja is an amazing left-arm fielder with a natural ability to judge plays, quick reflexes, and outstanding athleticism. He is also very flexible and fast, making him a dominant presence on the field.
Batsmen would be afraid to challenge Jadeja’s strong arm because they worried about getting run out. Few fielders have managed to instill such fear in their opponents.
READ MORE:
