15 Best Fielders in The History of Cricket (2025 Updated List)

By: Cricbites | October 7, 2025

Fielding is one of the most underrated aspects of cricket, yet it often makes the difference between victory and defeat. A dropped catch, a missed run-out or an acrobatic save on a boundary can completely change the course of a match. While batting and bowling are the mainstays of the game and often steal the spotlight, fielding requires exceptional athletic skills and quick reflexes.

Over the years, many players have set new standards with their breathtaking performances. In this blog, we rank the 15 best fielders in cricket history. In short, players who have turned games around through their talent on the field.

1. Jonty Rhodes (South Africa)

When it comes to fielding, the first name that comes to mind is Jonty Rhodes. The South African player revolutionized modern fielding in the 1990s with his pace, accuracy and unmatched athleticism. Inzamam-ul-Haq’s diving run-out in the 1992 World Cup is one of the most iconic moments in cricket.

International catches: 139
Best qualities: Quick reactions and direct hits, he set a benchmark for generations, proving that fielding could win matches.

2. Ricky Ponting (Australia)

Ricky Ponting was not only one of the best batsmen of his era, he was also a superb fielder. Whether in the slips or at cover, Ponting’s anticipation and sharp reactions made him a nightmare for batsmen.

International catches: 364
Signature moment: Direct-hit run-out to Gary Kirsten in the 1999 World Cup. Ponting’s commitment and aggression on the field inspired an entire generation of cricketers.

3. AB de Villiers (South Africa)

AB de Villiers could do it all, batting, wicket-keeping, sometimes bowling and of course, fielding like a superhero. Known for his brilliant dives and one-handed catches, he was known as “Mr 360°” not only for his batting but also for his fielding coverage.

International Catches (Outfield): 248
Speciality: Outfield catches and impossible run-outs

De Villiers’ efforts have saved countless runs for South Africa and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

4. Herschelle Gibbs (South Africa)

Before athletic fielders became commonplace, Herschelle Gibbs and Jonty Rhodes were the best fielding pair. Gibbs had rocket hands and cat-like reflexes, capable of pulling off jaw-dropping catches at point and cover.

International catches: 210
Best Known For: His quick pick-ups and straight throws changed games.

Gibbs’ consistency and pace made him one of the most fearsome fielders of his time.

5. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)

The Sri Lankan legend holds the record for the most catches (440) in international cricket. He was a master at slips, especially with Muttiah Muralitharan, who took many wickets in Jayawardene’s safe hands.

International catches: 440
Style: Elegant, coordinated and precise

Jayawardene’s fielding made him a key player in Sri Lanka’s golden era.

6. Suresh Raina (India)

Suresh Raina’s energy on the field changed the standards of India’s fielding in the 2010s. Whether at cover or deep mid-wicket, Raina was very quick, converting half-chances into wickets.

International catches: 167
Run-outs: 23
Highlight: His brilliant catch against Pakistan in the 2011 World Cup.

Raina’s dedication and agility made him one of India’s best fielders.

7. Brendon McCullum (New Zealand)

Initially a wicketkeeper, McCullum remained alive even after losing the gloves. His fearless dives and boundary fielding redefined aggression.

Total catches (including wicketkeeping): 462
Outfield catches: 77

McCullum’s presence at point or boundary was a constant threat to the batsmen.

8. Paul Collingwood (England)

England’s Paul Collingwood may not have been a natural bowler, but his work ethic and determination made him one of the most reliable hands in cricket.

International catches: 218
Notable for: Amazing one-handed catches at slips.

Collingwood’s sure hand and anticipation played a key role in many English victories.

9. Andrew Symonds (Australia)

Andrew Symonds combined size and agility like few others. Despite his stocky build, he moved quickly around the field and made powerful throws.

International catches: 107
Specialties: Direct hits and reflex catches inside the circle.

Symonds’ fielding was as explosive as his batting, contributing to Australia’s dominance in the 2000s.

10. Ravindra Jadeja (India)

Ravindra Jadeja is the best fielder in the world today. His pace, accuracy and throwing accuracy are second to none.

International catches: 151
Run-outs: 32

Whether diving to the left or right or hitting the stumps from mid-wicket, Jadeja rarely misses an opportunity.

11. Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)

He was nicknamed “Superman” for his brilliant catches. Phillips has earned global acclaim for his jaw-dropping efforts.

International catches: 86
Specialties: Outfield dives and boundary-line skills

His fitness and commitment make him one of the most exciting modern fielders.

12. Virat Kohli (India)

Virat Kohli’s unparalleled passion and energy shine through in his fielding. Whether saving runs at cover or taking diving catches, Kohli leads by example.

International catches: 336
Run-outs: 32

His consistency and intensity inspire his teammates to raise their fielding standards.

13. Faf du Plessis (South Africa)

Faf du Plessis redefined athletic fielding at his peak. Even in his 40s, he continues to put in world-class efforts.

International catches: 167
Qualities: Quick reflexes and accurate throws

Faf’s energy and fitness level make him one of the fittest cricketers of all time.

14. Steve Smith (Australia)

Steve Smith is known for his safe hand in the slips. His sharp reflexes make him an excellent catcher, especially against fast bowlers.

International catches: 332
Highlights: Many one-handed catches in Tests.

Smith’s positioning and focus have helped him become one of the most reliable slip fielders.

15. Glenn Maxwell (Australia)

Maxwell is the complete package. No matter what! Because he was an explosive batsman, a smooth bowler and a brilliant fielder. His pace and strong arm make him an asset in limited-overs cricket.

International catches: 158
Qualities: Boundary saves and direct hits

He is one of the most energetic fielders of the modern era, often converting half-chances into wickets.

Conclusion

Fielding is no longer a supporting skill, it is a match-winning weapon. Players like Jonty Rhodes, Ricky Ponting, AB de Villiers and Ravindra Jadeja have proven that saving runs is as important as scoring. Their talent has inspired future generations to consider fielding as an important part of the game.

From amazing catches to lightning run-outs, these 15 players have raised the bar for what is possible on the cricket field.

FAQs: People Also Ask

Q1. Who is the Best Fielder in Cricket History?

Jonty Rhodes is widely regarded as the greatest fielder of all time due to his agility, accuracy and revolutionary impact on modern fielding.

Q2. Who is the Greatest Indian Fielder of All Time?

Ravindra Jadeja and Suresh Raina top the list of India’s greatest fielders, known for their quick reactions and direct hits.

Q3. Which Fielder has Taken the Most Catches in International Cricket?

Mahela Jayawardene holds the record for taking the most catches in international cricket with 440 catches.

Q4. Who is the Greatest Fielder of Modern Times?

Ravindra Jadeja, Glenn Phillips and Faf du Plessis are among the best current fielders in world cricket.

Q5. Why is Fielding so Important in Cricket?

Fielding prevents runs, creates wicket-taking opportunities and can change the course of the game. In a way, it becomes an important part of the team’s success.