Australian star Steve Smith has reached one other main landmark in his Take a look at profession. Whereas enjoying in opposition to Sri Lanka within the second Take a look at at Galle, Smith turned solely the fifth non-wicketkeeper in historical past to finish 200 catches in Take a look at cricket.
The particular second occurred when Smith accomplished a routine catch of Kusal Mendis off Nathan Lyon’s bowling. The catch got here in Sri Lanka’s second innings on the fourth supply of the sixty fourth over, positioning Smith alongside South African legend Jacques Kallis, who additionally has 200 catches in his Take a look at profession.
Whereas Smith continues to make an influence in Take a look at cricket, the all-time document for many catches by a non-wicketkeeper belongs to India’s Rahul Dravid.
High 5 non-wicketkeepers with most catches in Take a look at cricket
5) Jacques Kallis (1995-2013)
Kallis is extensively thought to be one of many biggest all-rounders within the historical past of cricket. Not solely did he dominate with the bat, scoring over 10,000 runs in Take a look at cricket, however he was additionally an efficient seam bowler with greater than 200 wickets. Nevertheless, what usually goes unnoticed is his unbelievable fielding potential. Kallis was an important presence within the slip cordon for South Africa, the place he displayed wonderful anticipation and reflexes. Over a span of 166 matches, he grabbed 200 catches, making him one of many most secure fingers in Take a look at cricket. His potential to evaluate the ball early and his calm demeanor in high-pressure conditions made him an asset within the discipline.
4) Steve Smith (2010-Current)
Smith is likely one of the best modern-day cricketers, identified for his unconventional but extremely efficient batting method. Nevertheless, aside from his batting heroics, he has additionally established himself as an excellent fielder. Whether or not stationed within the slips, at gully, and even within the outfield, Smith has persistently displayed excellent reflexes, fast foot motion, and protected fingers. His two hundredth catch in Take a look at cricket, achieved in simply 116 matches, is a testomony to his sharp fielding expertise. Not like conventional slip fielders, Smith usually takes catches in numerous positions, showcasing his versatility. Together with his profession nonetheless ongoing, he has the potential to climb additional up this record and set new benchmarks.
Additionally WATCH: Steve Smith plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Dhananjaya de Silva on Day 3 of second Test – SL vs AUS
3) Mahela Jayawardene (1997-2014)
Sri Lanka’s batting maestro Jayawardene was not solely a chic stroke-maker but additionally one of the vital dependable fielders the sport has ever seen. Most of his catches got here within the slip area, the place he performed a vital position in supporting Sri Lanka’s sturdy spin assault, notably Muttiah Muralitharan and Rangana Herath. His sharp reflexes and skill to evaluate the flip and bounce of the ball made him a trusted catcher in strain conditions. Over 149 Take a look at matches, Jayawardene accomplished 205 catches, lots of which had been beautiful low-grab takes off spinners. His presence within the discipline usually proved decisive, serving to Sri Lanka flip the tide in essential video games.
2) Joe Root (2012-Current)
Root, one in every of England’s modern-day greats, has confirmed to be greater than only a batting powerhouse. His potential to take essential catches, particularly within the slip cordon, has made him an indispensable asset within the discipline. Root has proven outstanding consistency as a fielder, taking 207 catches in simply 152 Take a look at matches. His protected fingers and sharp anticipation make him a trusted determine at first or second slip, notably when England’s seamers are in motion. He has taken some breathtaking catches off James Anderson and Stuart Broad, serving to England break essential partnerships. On condition that Root remains to be an lively participant, he’s properly on track to problem Dravid’s document for probably the most catches in Take a look at historical past.
1) Rahul Dravid (1996-2012)
Referred to as ‘The Wall’ for his rock-solid batting, Dravid additionally holds the document for probably the most catches by a non-wicketkeeper in Take a look at cricket. His calm and composed nature made him an distinctive slip fielder, the place he performed a pivotal position in India’s success, notably in helping legendary bowlers like Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, and Zaheer Khan. His sharp hand-eye coordination and impeccable catching method allowed him to take 210 catches in 164 Take a look at matches. Whether or not it was sharp, low catches off spinners or reflex grabs in opposition to quick bowlers, Dravid hardly ever let alternatives slip away. His presence within the discipline supplied India with a way of assurance, as he was identified for holding onto troublesome probabilities in high-pressure conditions.
