Most catches as fielder in Ashes
The England versus Australia Test series, traditionally referred to as the “Ashes,” began in 1882. The series has seen several outstanding performances over the years, both with the bat and ball and on the field. Catches win you matches is a common cricketing term, as the fielders are given equal importance as the batters and bowlers.
One good catch and one brilliant fielding effort can do wonders on the field, as the face of the game can be changed in no time. Especially in Test cricket, dropped catches can cost a lot and hence the fielders on the slip and gully play a key role in any game. Some players have achieved laurels while fielding, and on that note, we look at the players with the most number of catches taken in the Ashes:
3. Greg Chappell – 48 catches
Former Australia legend Greg Chappell represented his side in 30 Ashes Tests over the course of almost 13 years, from 1970 to 1983. He finished his Ashes career with a total of 48 catches in the kitty. Interestingly, Chappel also holds the record of picking up the most number of catches in a single Ashes match, as he picked up 7 catches during the 1974/75 series.
2. Allan Border – 51 catches
Former Australian great Allan Border holds second place in the list of players with the most catches in the history of Ashes. Having represented his country in 79 innings of 42 Ashes Tests between 1978 to 1993, Border caught 51 catches in total, only three less than the top-placed Ian Botham.
1. Ian Botham, Steve Smith – 54 catches
Former England international Sir Ian Botham and current Australian veteran Steve Smith top the list of players with the most catches in Ashes history. While Botham achieved the feat in the late 80s, Smith recently joined him on top of the elite list as he took his 54th catch in the ongoing Ashes 2023. Notably, Smith is the only active cricketer in this list and hence is just one catch away from surpassing Botham.
