Australian star Steve Smith has reached one other main landmark in his Take a look at profession. Whereas enjoying towards 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 file 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. Nonetheless, what usually goes unnoticed is his unimaginable fielding skill. Kallis was an important presence within the slip cordon for South Africa, the place he displayed glorious 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 skill 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 among the best modern-day cricketers, recognized for his unconventional but extremely efficient batting approach. Nonetheless, other than his batting heroics, he has additionally established himself as a superb 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 secure fingers. His 2 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 checklist and set new benchmarks.
Additionally WATCH: Steve Smith plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Dhananjaya de Silva on Day 3 of second Take a look at – SL vs AUS
3) Mahela Jayawardene (1997-2014)
Sri Lanka’s batting maestro Jayawardene was not solely a chic stroke-maker but in addition one of the dependable fielders the sport has ever seen. Most of his catches got here within the slip area, the place he performed an important function in supporting Sri Lanka’s sturdy spin assault, notably Muttiah Muralitharan and Rangana Herath. His sharp reflexes and talent 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, a lot of which have been gorgeous 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 among England’s modern-day greats, has confirmed to be greater than only a batting powerhouse. His skill to take essential catches, particularly within the slip cordon, has made him an indispensable asset within the discipline. Root has proven exceptional consistency as a fielder, taking 207 catches in simply 152 Take a look at matches. His secure 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. Provided that Root continues to be an energetic participant, he’s properly on the right track to problem Dravid’s file for essentially the most catches in Take a look at historical past.
1) Rahul Dravid (1996-2012)
Often known as ‘The Wall’ for his rock-solid batting, Dravid additionally holds the file for essentially 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 function in India’s success, notably in aiding legendary bowlers like Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, and Zaheer Khan. His sharp hand-eye coordination and impeccable catching approach 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 towards quick bowlers, Dravid not often let alternatives slip away. His presence within the discipline offered India with a way of assurance, as he was recognized for holding onto tough possibilities in high-pressure conditions.