Cricket, which is the most popular sport in India, isn't only about batting and bowling; the fielders also have a significant role in the game. Fielding in cricket is not just about catching the ball, but it is all about how strategically you do it, and do not let the batting team score more than you. As a beginner, you may find it challenging to understand the various cricket fielding positions. This blog is designed for you, where I have shared information about the different cricket fielding positions. Understanding these positions helps you to understand the game better and improve your playing skills. So let's get started to know more.
What Are the Cricket Fielding Positions in Cricket?
Fielding positions in cricket refer to the spots where players are placed to take catches and stop the balls. The name of the position depends on the direction and distance from the batter.
The following are common positions, such as slips, gully, point, cover, mid-off, mid-on, square leg, fine leg, and third man. Some positions are closer to the batter's opportunities, while others are placed on the boundary to stop the big shots. Based on the bowler's plan and the batter's strength, the captain sets the field. Sometimes, the captain even selects the best all-rounder for their adaptability and versatility in the field.
Why Are Cricket Fielding Positions Important?
Cricket fielding positions are necessary as they can completely change the direction of the game. Let's say, for example, that the batter loves playing the shots to the right side, then you can strategically place as many fielders to the right as to the left to stop the runs and take catches. However, the fielders in cricket are not randomly selected. But, they are chosen by the batsman based on several factors, including the type of bowler, either fast or spin, the batter's strength and weakness, the match situation, and also based on the different formats such as Test, ODI, or T20.
Names and Roles of the Cricket Fielding Positions
Close Infield
Close Infield refers to the position where the fielder is closer and surrounds the batter with a shorter distance from the crease, which is often used for catching opportunities. Fielders are here like the Silly Point, Short Leg, or Slips, who stand very close to react quickly to the edges or mistimed shots. The close-in field is the key zone for creating pressure and taking wickets in Test Cricket. The positions in the close field include the Wicket Keeper, the Slips, Gully Leg, Slip Leg, Silly, Point, Silly Mid-off, Short Leg, and Silly Mid-on.
Inner Ring
The inner ring includes fielders who are positioned within 30 yards of the batter and spread out on both off and leg sides. Fielders like the point, cover, and mid-on try to cut off quick singles and stop the boundaries. The inner ring covers both the defensive and attacking roles, mainly used in the limited-overs format to control scoring.
Outfield
The outfield is a position that lies beyond the 30-yard circle, covering the boundary area. The outfield area plays a crucial role in saving runs and fielding boundaries, especially in the T20 and ODI matches, where power-hitting is common. The position names in the outfield are Third Man, Long Leg, Cow Corner, Deep Point, Deep Backwards Points, Deep Cover, Deep Extra Cover, Deep Fine Leg, Deep Square Leg, Deep Mid Wicket, Long Off, and Long On.
Role of Captain
Among other legends of cricket in the field, the captain plays a significant role in planning, practising, and shaping the integrity of the team. He is the one who is responsible for making decisions, setting strategy based on the game format, such as pitch conditions, bowler type, and the batter's strengths or weaknesses.
The best captain helps the players and the team to tackle difficult situations, and also adjusts the fields accordingly.
He is responsible for placing the catchers for attacking plays, and spreading the field to defend the places such as the boundary. Communication with the bowlers and quick decision-making are the key elements to turn the tide of the game.
However, the field placement by the captain reflects the team's overall strategy and the mindset during the phase of the match, and also enhances the chances for the team to win.
Fielding Positions in the Different Formats
Fielding Positions in cricket vary depending on the format of the cricket being played.
Test Cricket
In test cricket, there are probably no fielding restrictions, and the captains can place the fielders wherever they want. The primary focus is on patience and precision.
ODI Cricket
In ODI cricket, the fielding restrictions apply. The first 10 overs include two fielders, which is allowed outside the 30-yard circle. A total of 11-40 overs, where up to fielders are allowed inside. Whereas the last 10 overs, which are 41-50 overs, are when the five fielders are allowed outside.
T20 Cricket
In T20s, the restrictions are even tighter, where the first six overs are powerplay, and only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. In the 7-20 overs, a maximum of 5 fielders are allowed outside.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cricket Fielding Positions
How Many Fielders Are Allowed on the Field in Cricket?
A fielding team has a total of 11 players, including the bowler and the wicketkeeper. The remaining nine are placed in the bowling position on the field depending on the match situation and strategy.
What Is the Difference Between Long-On and Long-Off?
Long-on is on the leg side near the boundary, while long-off is on the off side near the boundary. Both cover straight shots.
What Is the Necessity of Slip Fielders in Cricket?
Slip fielders are positioned to catch balls that edge off the bat when the batsman tries to play a shot. They are crucial in getting early wickets, especially in Tests.
The reason why cricket is so popular in India is that it provides versatility. Learning the cricket fielding positions helps the players understand the depth of the game. However, a well-set field can build pressure, create chances, and even turn the fortune of a match. As cricket evolves across the formats, knowing the fielding positions remains key to innovative and compelling gameplay.
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