Best catches in cricket
Published on: Jun 28, 2023 11:16 pm IST|Updated on: Jun 28, 2023 11:16 pm IST
In the game of cricket, there are moments that can completely shift the momentum and add an exciting twist. Among these moments, a crucial catch at the right time stands out as a game-changer. Over the years, we have witnessed remarkable catches that have altered the entire complexion of matches, serving as pivotal turning points.
Traditionally, batting and bowling have been regarded as the primary aspects teams focus on during a match. However, recent times have seen a growing recognition of the significant role that great fielding efforts can play in determining the outcome. Particularly in limited-overs formats, fielding has emerged as a crucial factor that teams prioritize.
Players such as Jonty Rhodes, AB de Villiers, and Ravindra Jadeja have consistently demonstrated the influential impact of exceptional fielding. They have reshaped perceptions about fielding, elevating it from a neglected aspect to an equally important component alongside batting and bowling. Jonty Rhodes, hailed as one of cricket’s greatest fielders, revolutionized the approach to fielding during a time when it was often overlooked. Presently, teams invest significant attention in the fielding aspect and place emphasis on the fitness levels of their players.
Best catches in cricket
Kapil Dev – 1983 World Cup Final
One of the Best catches in cricket history undoubtedly belongs to Kapil Dev during the 1983 World Cup Final. India found themselves up against the formidable West Indies team in the ultimate showdown, having set a modest target of 184 runs in a 60-over match. Defending such a low total seemed challenging, especially with the dominant form of Viv Richards, who had already smashed 33 runs off just 28 balls, including seven boundaries. Richards was considered the backbone of the West Indies’ batting lineup, making his wicket crucial.
In a game-changing moment, Kapil Dev pulled off an extraordinary catch while sprinting back towards the boundary line, dismissing Viv Richards. The catch was even more remarkable considering Richards’ blistering form. The wicket of Richards proved to be a turning point as it triggered the collapse of the West Indies batting order. This pivotal moment ultimately led to India clinching their first-ever World Cup trophy, defeating the West Indies by a margin of 43 runs.
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S Sreesanth – World T20 2007 Final
One of the Best catches in cricket World Cup Final was made by Sreesanth during the 2007 T20 World Cup. This highly anticipated tournament marked the first-ever T20 World Cup, and it featured an intense clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the finals. As the match unfolded, it seemed to be tilting in favor of Pakistan. With just 6 runs needed off 4 balls for victory, the tension reached its peak.
Throughout the innings, Misbah-ul-Haq had displayed his exceptional batting skills, scoring a crucial 43 runs off 38 balls. He remained at the crease until the last wicket stood, emerging as the driving force behind Pakistan’s chase. However, as Pakistan approached the finishing line, Misbah attempted a daring ramp shot off the bowling of Joginder Sharma in a bid to clear the boundary. Unfortunately for him, he couldn’t connect cleanly, resulting in the ball soaring towards Sreesanth positioned at short fine leg.
In a moment that would be etched in cricketing history, Sreesanth calmly positioned himself and held his nerve, securely collecting the ball that was heading his way. The crowd erupted in jubilation as the catch ended Pakistan’s hopes of a victory and secured a historic win for India in the inaugural T20 World Cup.
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Ben Stokes – 2019 World Cup
In a riveting encounter during the 2019 World Cup, England clashed with South Africa in a pivotal group stage match. As the game unfolded, England showcased their fielding prowess, with one moment leaving spectators astounded. Andile Phehlukwayo, determined to score big, attempted a forceful slog sweep off the bowling of Adil Rashid. However, it was Ben Stokes who emerged as the hero, defying the limits of gravity with an extraordinary display of athleticism. With impeccable timing, Stokes soared into the air, snatching the ball with a single outstretched hand while gracefully diving near the boundary. It was an awe-inspiring catch that further solidified Stokes’ reputation as an exceptional fielder.
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