The cricketing world is increasingly becoming more athletic as it progresses towards a more modern and versatile approach. New rules are floated to tackle the cricketing challenges. But the fielding standards have gone up. Several factors are considered while analyzing the fielding standards like athleticism, agility, and ability to save runs. The cricketing teams have frequently underlined the importance of having good fielders who can help the team save 20-30 winning runs. Several names are discussed that have redefined the fielding standards, leaving the fans jaw-dropped with their agility and reflexes. Here we delve into top-3 cricketers who redefined fielding with their quick reflexes and athletic nature.
1. Jonty Rhodes
Jonty Rhodes remains one of the most iconic and athletic fielders in cricket history. His gravity-defying dives, lightening reflexes, and acrobatic stops have always become the talk of the town. The cricketer set golden standards for fielding from the 1990s to the 2000s. One of the examples that highlights his fielding effort was Inzamam-ul-Haq’s run out in the 1992 cricket World Cup. 2
2. Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja stands tall as one of the finest fielders in cricketing history across all formats. Nicknamed “Sir Jadeja” for his athleticism and agility. His lightning quick pickups and accurate throws. Jadeja can be stationed in any part of the field and he justifies his place in the team. His ability to cover ground and accurate throws make him a nightmare for the batsman. The legendary South African cricketer, Jonty Rhodes, too, had placed Ravindra Jadeja above him as the world’s best fielder. has time and again proved his prowess. He was quoted as saying “Right now, there is only one – Ravindra Jadeja. It is T20 cricket specifically, not just limited overs. Only when IPL began, people started focusing on fielding.”
3. AB de Villiers
AB de Villiers is a bowler’s nightmare when he comes to bat. He is a magician on the field with the bat, literally shrinking every massive target to look easy for his ability to hit from word go. Apart from his batting skills, AB de Villiers also set his fielding standards as invincible. His athleticism made diving and tough catches look effortless. Apart from that he also played as a wicket-keeper and bowler. This made AB the most versatile player in the cricketing history.
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