Top Test Cricketers Who Hold The Record For Most Catches In Test History
In Test cricket, batting and bowling are important, but fielding is just as valuable. A sudden catch can change the whole match. When a fielder puts pressure on the batter, it becomes hard for the batter to stay calm, especially in Test matches where even small mistakes can turn the game.
In Test matches, slip fielders and outfielders play a key role. Many times, we have seen one great catch change the flow of the game. In this article, we will talk about five legendary non-wicket-keeper fielders who have taken the most catches in Test cricket history.
5. Steve Smith (Australia) – 200 Catches
In the list of most catches in test cricket, Steve Smith has made a big impact for Australia not only with the bat but also with his fielding. He often fields in the slips and has taken catches regularly. Till now, he has taken 200 catches in 117 Test matches. His best in a single innings is 5 catches. His quick reflexes and good position make him a strong part of the slip field.
4. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 200 Catches
Jacques Kallis is known as one of the best all-rounders in cricket and comes fourth in the list of most catches in test cricket, his fielding is a big part of his career success. In South Africa, fielding in the slips on fast pitches is tough, but Kallis made it look easy. He played 166 Tests, took 200 catches, scored more than 13,000 runs, and also took 292 wickets. He helped South Africa in every part of the game.
3. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 205 Catches
Mahela Jayawardene made slip catching in tough subcontinent conditions look easy. It was even more difficult when Muttiah Muralitharan was bowling, but Mahela handled it well. He played 149 Test matches and took 205 catches. He was always reliable with both the bat and in the field.
2. Rahul Dravid (India) – 210 Catches
Rahul Dravid, also called “The Wall“, helped India not just with the bat but also in the slip field. On Indian pitches where spin is common, his catching helped India get many key wickets. He played 164 Tests and took 210 catches. His fielding showed his focus and calm nature.
1. Joe Root (England) – 210* Catches
Joe Root is still an active player and has already taken 210 catches in 154 Test matches. His slip fielding has helped England many times. He has many years of cricket left, so he may break more records. Right now, he is tied with Rahul Dravid for the most catches in Test cricket by a non-wicketkeeper.
In Test cricket, catches often decide the match result. These top 5 players made fielding look easy and gave their teams big advantages. Their impact was not just with runs or wickets, but also with game-changing catches.
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