Test cricket has a special place in the hearts of many fans around the world. While many fans focus on runs scored and wickets taken, there’s another crucial aspect of the game: catching. A well-timed catch can change the course of a match, turning a good performance into an unforgettable one.
In the world of Test cricket, certain players have stood out for their remarkable ability to make catches seem easy. Players with impressive records for most catches in test cricket have gained respect and admiration from fans around the world. These athletes have dedicated their careers to perfecting their fielding skills while also contributing significantly to their teams’ success.
List Of Players With Most Catches in Test Cricket
Below is a comprehensive guide on top 6 players with the most catches in cricket for test matches. It also includes a brief introduction of the player, their teams, number of catches, number of matches and innings.
Rahul Dravid
For most catches in test, Rahul Dravid stands tall with an impressive total of 210 catches. Dravid played for the Indian national team from 1996 to 2012, earning a reputation as one of the finest batsmen and one of the game’s greatest guardians on the field. Rahul’s signature square drive is still fan favorite.
Dravid’s exceptional hand-eye coordination and anticipation made him a nightmare for opposing batsmen. His catching technique was both simple and effective; he positioned himself strategically at first or second slip to maximize his chances of grabbing those elusive edges. He played a total of 164 matches and had 301 innings.
Mahela Jayawardene
Mahela Jayawardene, one of Sri Lanka’s cricketing legends, holds a prominent spot in the record books with his remarkable achievement of taking 205 catches in Test cricket. He played from 1997 to 2015 for Sri Lankan national team. He played a total of 149 Test matches and 270 innings.
Alongside fellow cricketers like Kumar Sangakkara and Muttiah Muralitharan, Jayawardene helped lead Sri Lanka to numerous victories on international soil. Jayawardene was an excellent batsman and a very sharp fielder with most catches in international cricket. His catches often came during critical moments of matches, showcasing his ability to change the game’s momentum.
Joe Root
Joe Root, the talented player from England, stands proudly as one of the third on the list of players with the most catches in cricket test match. With an impressive tally of 201 catches from 146 matches and 277 innings, Root has proven to be an exceptional fielder. His journey began in December 2012 when he made his Test debut against India.
His sharp reflexes and excellent anticipation make him a reliable option when it comes to catching those tricky edges from opposition batsmen. One memorable instance is his stunning catch at slip during a match against South Africa in 2020.
Jacques Kallis
Jacques Kallis is a legendary South African cricketer who has left his mark on the world of Test cricket. His career spanned from 1995 to 2014. Kallis played in 166 Test matches and batted in 315 innings. He is renowned not just for his exceptional batting skills but also for his sharp reflexes as a fielder.
With a remarkable total of 200 catches to his name, he is celebrated as fourth player on the list of players with most test catches. Many of these catches were taken at slips, where he displayed great anticipation and timing. His unique capacity to balance all aspects of cricket made him an invaluable asset for South Africa over nearly two decades.
Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting, player from Australian national team stands fifth on the list with an impressive tally of 196 catches He is one of the most celebrated cricketers in history and played a pivotal role for the l team from 1995 to 2012. Ponting’s keen eye and quick reflexes made him a crucial component of Australia’s dominance in world cricket during those years.
He appeared in 168 Test matches and carved his name into the record books as a brilliant batsman and an exceptional fielder. Throughout his innings totaling 328, each catch added to Ponting’s legacy.
Steve Smith
Steve Smith, from the Australian cricket team, has made a name for himself as one of the best batsmen and slip fielders in Test cricket. Since making his debut in 2010, Smith has played 109 Test matches and made 207 innings. Steve Smith has taken an impressive total of 183 catches throughout his Test career.
Steve’s ability to read the game and position himself well makes him one of the best slip fielders in modern cricket. His role as a slip fielder has seen him take on challenging positions, often helping to secure crucial wickets for his team.
Conclusion
Throughout the history of Test cricket, catching has been a crucial skill that can change the outcome of a game. Players like Rahul Dravid, Mahela Jayawardene, and Joe Root have set incredible records for players with most catches in test cricket.
These athletes showcase excellent hand-eye coordination, quick thinking and sharp reflexes on the field. Each catch tells a story of hard work and determination, highlighting the importance of every role in cricket.
FAQs
Who has taken the most catches in test cricket as a fielder?
The record for the highest catches in test as a fielder is held by Rahul Dravid from India. He took a total of 210 catches during his career, which spanned from 1996 to 2012.
Who is the best fielder in the world?
Determining the best fielder in the world can be subjective, however Jonty Rhodes from South Africa is known for his incredible agility and quick reflexes. Rhodes holds the record for the most catches in One Day Internationals (ODIs) by a fielder, with 105 catches.
Who hit first century in test?
In 1877, Australian national player, Charles Bannerman hit the first century in test cricket in a match between Austrailia and England.