Understanding cricket fielding positions is essential for anyone learning the game. Field placements are not random, they are carefully chosen to stop runs, create catching opportunities, and support the bowler’s strategy. Each position has a specific name and purpose based on its location and role.
This guide explains cricket fielding positions in simple language so beginners can easily recognize and understand them.
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Close-In Fielding Positions
These fielders stand near the batter, mainly to catch edges or quick deflections.
Slip
Slips stand beside the wicketkeeper on the off side. They catch edges from fast bowlers when the batter misses the ball slightly.
Gully
Positioned slightly wider than slip, gully stops square edges that travel between the slips and point.
Silly Point
A very close position on the off side, often used against spin bowlers. Fielders here react quickly to soft deflections.
Short Leg
Short leg stands close on the leg side to catch flicks and inside edges.
Infield Cricket Fielding Positions
These players stand within the inner circle and help stop quick singles and drives.
Point
Located square on the off side, point stops cut shots and square drives.
Cover
Covers are positioned between point and mid-off. They stop powerful drives through the off side.
Mid-Off
Mid-off stands straight in front of the batter on the off side. This position prevents straight drives and is often used for catching.
Mid-On
Similar to mid-off but on the leg side, mid-on stops straight shots and supports the bowler.
Outfield Cricket Fielding Positions
Outfielders protect boundaries and limit scoring.
Deep Cover
Placed near the boundary on the off side to stop powerful drives.
Long-Off
Long-off stands straight down the ground on the off side, guarding against lofted shots.
Long-On
Long-on mirrors long-off but on the leg side.
Deep Mid-Wicket
This position covers the leg-side boundary and stops pull and slog shots.
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Behind-the-Wicket Positions
Wicketkeeper
The wicketkeeper stands behind the stumps and is involved in catches, stumpings, and run-outs.
Third Man
Third man stands behind the batter on the off side near the boundary to stop edges that pass the slips.
Fine Leg
Fine leg stands behind the batter on the leg side, stopping glances and deflections.
Why Cricket Fielding Positions Matter
Run Prevention
Smart placement reduces scoring opportunities and builds pressure on batters.
Wicket Opportunities
Close-in fielders increase chances of catches and quick dismissals.
Strategy and Flexibility
Fielding positions change based on bowler type, batter style, and match situation.
Tips for Learning Fielding Positions
Understand Off Side and Leg Side First
Knowing these two halves of the field helps make position names easier to understand.
Watch Matches Closely
Field placements become clearer when observed in real games.
Summary
Knowing cricket fielding positions and their meanings helps beginners appreciate the tactical side of the game. Each position has a purpose, whether saving runs or taking wickets.
Once you recognize these positions, watching cricket becomes more engaging and understanding team strategy becomes much easier.