Caught in the field – 5 Players with most catches in the IPL
The fielding standards in the game of cricket have shot up incessantly in the modern time and a game fixated on exploits with bat and ball, fielding has also gained consideration. In limited-overs cricket, each run counts and the margin of victory is many times decided by the narrowest of margins. A major contribution, therefore, in the rising importance and standards of fielding has been played by the shorter format of the game.
The T20 format has played a crucial role in making fielding important. The emergence of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has created a benchmark in terms of fielding with the superstars of the game rubbing the shoulders with each other.
Let us, on this note, take a look at some of the best fielders who have taken the most catches in the IPL-
Dwayne Bravo
A renowned T20 specialist, this Trinidadian has taken some of the most breathtaking catches in the history of the league. Whether a sharp low catch inside the ring, a running relay catch, or an absolute blinder on the edge of the boundary, Bravo can never be kept out of action. He has changed the entire results of matches by a moment of his fielding brilliance. The 36-year-old has bagged 74 catches in 124 matches.
Kieron Pollard
The expert of a player in the shorter format of the game, Kieron Pollard is one dedicated man in the outfield. Even though his appearance may suggest otherwise, he is one of the agilest when it comes to covering the ground and despite his bulky frame, Pollard never shies from throwing or diving on the ground to save runs or create an opportunity for his team. The champion fielder has grabbed 82 catches in 148 matches.
Rohit Sharma
He might not appear to be the quickest by his looks, but make no mistake, Rohit Sharma is another fine fielder from India who can be trusted blindly. His catching skill has only improved with time and he has upped his value by contributing in the field alongside his stupendous exploits with the bat. Rohit has 83 catches to his name in 188 matches.
AB de Villiers
He is the superman from South Africa, whose fielding prowess needs no introduction whatsoever. A marauder with the bat, ABD is incredible in the field, to say the least. From flying in the air to grab a one-handed stunner at the boundary to picking the ball up from his ankles, AB has taken some of the most stunning catches over the years. In 154 matches, he has grabbed 84 catches and sits second on the pile.
Suresh Raina
One of the finest fielders in the history of the game, Suresh Raina tops the list of most catches by a player in IPL. Raina, apart from his brilliant stroke-play with the bat and off-break bowling, is known for his top-notch fielding at any position he stands. The 33-year-old is undoubtedly one of the safest pairs of hands and is number one by quite some margin. He has taken 102 catches in 193 matches in IPL.