Fielding is a pivotal aspect of One Day International (ODI) cricket, often determining the outcome of closely contested matches. The Greatest ODI Fielders possess exceptional agility, anticipation, and precision, making significant contributions to their teams. Below is an exploration of the top 10 Greatest ODI Fielders of the 21st century.
List of 10 Greatest ODI Fielders of the 21st Century
10. Andrew Symonds – Australia
Andrew Symonds was renowned as one of the Greatest ODI Fielders, combining athleticism with a powerful throwing arm. His ability to execute direct hits and take stunning catches made him invaluable to the Australian team.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 198 |
| Catches | 82 |
| Catches per innings | 0.418 |
Symonds’ fielding prowess often shifted the momentum in Australia’s favor, exemplifying the impact of the Greatest ODI Fielders.
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9. Virat Kohli – India
Virat Kohli’s relentless energy and sharp reflexes have established him among the Greatest ODI Fielders. His versatility across various fielding positions and ability to effect direct-hit run-outs have been instrumental for India.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 301 |
| Catches | 161 |
| Catches per innings | 0.54 |
Kohli’s commitment to fielding excellence underscores the significance in modern cricket.
8. Glenn Maxwell – Australia
Glenn Maxwell, often referred to as “The Big Show,” is celebrated as one of the Greatest ODI Fielders for his acrobatic skills and exceptional anticipation. His contributions in saving runs and taking spectacular catches have been pivotal for Australia.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 157 |
| Catches | 96 |
| Catches per innings | 0.61 |
Maxwell’s dynamic fielding showcases the critical role in enhancing team performance.
7. Martin Guptill – New Zealand
Martin Guptill stands out among the Greatest ODI Fielders for his exceptional throwing accuracy and agility. His memorable run-outs in crucial matches have solidified his reputation as a fielding maestro.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 198 |
| Catches | 108 |
| Catches per innings | 0.545 |
Guptill’s fielding brilliance exemplifies the game-changing abilities.
6. Glenn Phillips – New Zealand
Glenn Phillips has emerged as one of the Greatest ODI Fielders in recent times, known for his electric speed and spectacular catches. His performances have added a new dimension to New Zealand’s fielding unit.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 53 |
| Catches | 29 |
| Catches per innings | 0.55 |
Phillips’ rapid rise highlights the evolving standards.
5. Paul Collingwood – England
Paul Collingwood’s fielding excellence places him among the Greatest ODI Fielders. His sharp reflexes and safe hands made him a cornerstone of England’s fielding strategy.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 197 |
| Catches | 108 |
| Catches per innings | 0.55 |
Collingwood’s contributions underscore the value to their teams.
4. Ravindra Jadeja – India
Ravindra Jadeja is widely regarded as one of the Greatest ODI Fielders, with his lightning-quick reflexes and accurate throws. His ability to save crucial runs and effect run-outs has been a game-changer for India.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 198 |
| Catches | 90 |
| Catches per innings | 0.45 |
Jadeja’s fielding mastery epitomizes the impact of the Greatest ODI Fielders in contemporary cricket.
3. Faf du Plessis – South Africa
Faf du Plessis has earned his place among the Greatest ODI Fielders through his agility and consistency. His ability to take difficult catches and save runs has been instrumental for South Africa.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 143 |
| Catches | 82 |
| Catches per innings | 0.57 |
Du Plessis’ fielding excellence highlights the crucial role of the Greatest ODI Fielders in elevating team performance.
2. AB de Villiers – South Africa
AB de Villiers, often dubbed “Mr. 360,” is celebrated as one of the Greatest ODI Fielders for his versatility and athleticism. His remarkable catches and swift movements have left an indelible mark on the game.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 228 |
| Catches | 176 |
| Catches per innings | 0.58 |
De Villiers’ fielding brilliance underscores the transformative impact of the Greatest ODI Fielders.
1. Jonty Rhodes – South Africa
Jonty Rhodes is undoubtedly the greatest ODI fielder of all time. His acrobatic dives, lightning-fast reflexes, and game-changing run-outs redefined fielding standards in world cricket.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 245 |
| Catches | 105 |
| Catches per innings | 0.43 |
Rhodes’ iconic run-out of Inzamam-ul-Haq in the 1992 World Cup remains one of the greatest fielding moments in cricket history.
Conclusion
The greatest ODI fielders of all time have revolutionized the game with their agility, reflexes, and precision. From Jonty Rhodes’ legendary run-outs to AB de Villiers’ acrobatic catches, these players have set new benchmarks in fielding. In modern cricket, fielding is no longer just a supporting role—it is a game-changing factor that decides matches at the highest level.
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