Fielding: Sharpen Your Catching, Throwing and Ground Work
A single catch or a sharp run-out can turn a game. Fielding isn't just about athleticism — it's about focus, technique and smart positioning. If you want to save runs and create chances, use simple drills and habits that pro players rely on every day.
Start with basics: eyes on the ball, soft hands, and quick feet. Practice catching at chest height, high catches and low scoops separately. Work on short, accurate throws more than power throws; a direct hit from a short distance beats a wild long throw every time.
Quick Fielding Drills
Do these drills for 15–30 minutes after nets. They fix real game problems fast.
Catching Ladder: Stand in a line. Throw chest-high catches, then shoulder-high, then high catches. Increase speed each round. This builds hand-eye coordination and confidence.
Bucket Pick-Up Drill: Place a ball on the ground, sprint 5–10 metres, pick it up under control and throw to a target. Repeat both sides. This trains body position and transfer from ground to throw.
Slip Reaction: One fielder throws balls at varied heights quickly. The slip fielder practices soft hands and tiny footwork. Use a tennis ball at first to reduce fear and build consistency.
Boundary Chase: Set cones 15–25 metres from a central point. Sprint to a cone, dive or stop the ball, then return and throw to the target. This builds stamina and recovery under pressure.
Match-Day Fielding Tips
Be intentional. Before the match, walk the ground to check angles, wind and the bounce. Place your best catcher where most balls are likely to come — slips for new ball, ring fielders for cutting runs, and a strong arm at deep midwicket or long-off.
Warm up like you play: short sprints, throwing with a target and catching in pairs. Stay light on your feet between deliveries. Read the batter’s body language — if they open up, back up slightly; if they look tense, move in to cut singles.
Communicate. Call for the ball loudly and clearly. Avoid collisions by using the same words and signals your teammates know. If you drop a catch, move on fast. One mistake shouldn't ruin your focus for the next ball.
Work on fitness that matters: lateral movement, short sprints, shoulder endurance and core stability. Good fielding needs quick direction changes more than long-distance speed.
Finally, make fielding fun in practice. Reward saves and direct hits. Keep drills competitive but short so effort stays high. Fielding is a skill you build with intention — train smart, stay sharp, and you’ll add value to every match.
Want more drills or a week-by-week practice plan? Try these routines at your next session and watch the difference in a few weeks.
What makes Risabh Pant special?
Rishabh Pant is a young and talented wicket-keeper batsman from India. He made his debut in 2017 and has since made a mark in the cricket world with his explosive batting. His record-breaking performances, outstanding fielding and his unique style of play make him an exceptional cricketer. He is a player who has the ability to win matches on his own and has already achieved a lot in his short international career.