In the world of cricket, while batting prowess often steals the spotlight, fielding remains a crucial aspect of the game that can change the course of a match. Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, has proven himself not just as a formidable batsman but also as a reliable fielder, particularly in the slip cordon. During the second day of the Gabba Test, Kohli showcased his exceptional fielding skills by taking two crucial catches, dismissing Nathan McSweeney and Marnus Labuschagne, and further solidifying his reputation as a top slip fielder.
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Kohli’s Slip Vs Steve Smith
Kohli’s ability to catch in the slips is often overshadowed by his batting achievements, but his contributions in the field are significant. With these two catches, he has now accumulated 70 catches against Australia across all formats, making him the leading non-wicketkeeper in this category. This remarkable feat highlights his consistency and skill in a position that requires sharp reflexes and concentration.
The Catching Record
To put Kohli’s achievement into perspective, here’s a look at the most catches taken by non-wicketkeepers against a single opposition across all formats:
| Player | Opposition | Matches | Catches |
| Steve Smith | England | 85 | 76 |
| Mahela Jayawardena | England | 75 | 72 |
| Allan Border | England | 90 | 71 |
| Virat Kohli | Australia | 100 | 70 |
| Mahela Jayawardena | Pakistan | 103 | 68 |
| Mark Waugh | West Indies | 75 | 68 |
| Greg Chappell | England | 55 | 67 |
| Viv Richards | India | 59 | 65 |
| Allan Border | New Zealand | 75 | 64 |
| Rahul Dravid | Australia | 65 | 63 |
Kohli currently ranks fourth on this list, trailing behind the legendary Steve Smith, who holds the record with 76 catches against England. Sri Lanka’s Mahela Jayawardena and Australia’s Allan Border follow closely with 72 and 71 catches, respectively. Kohli needs just one more catch to equal Border and two more to surpass him, making it an exciting prospect for fans and cricket enthusiasts alike.
The Importance of Fielding
Fielding is often an underappreciated skill in cricket, yet it can be just as impactful as batting or bowling. A well-timed catch can shift momentum, and Kohli’s ability to perform under pressure in the slip cordon has been invaluable for the Indian team. His agility and sharp reflexes make him a key player in the field, complementing his batting prowess.
The Teams in Action
In the ongoing Test match, both teams have fielded strong line-ups. Australia’s playing XI includes notable players like Usman Khawaja, Steven Smith, and Pat Cummins, while India boasts a formidable squad featuring KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and of course, Virat Kohli himself. The competition is fierce, and every catch counts in the quest for victory.
Conclusion
As Virat Kohli continues to climb the ranks in the list of non-wicketkeeper catches, his contributions in the field are becoming increasingly recognized. With his eyes set on surpassing legends like Allan Border, Kohli’s journey in the slip cordon is one to watch. His dual threat as a batsman and fielder makes him an invaluable asset to the Indian cricket team.
Read More: Amazing Virat Kohli Age, Height, Bio, Income, Net Worth, Relationships, and Family in 2024
FAQs
1. How many catches does Virat Kohli have against Australia?
Virat Kohli has taken 70 catches against Australia across all formats, making him the leading non-wicketkeeper in this category.
2. Who holds the record for the most catches by a non-wicketkeeper against a single opposition?
Steve Smith holds the record with 76 catches against England, followed by Mahela Jayawardena with 72 catches against the same opposition. Virat Kohli is currently fourth on the list with 70 catches against Australia.
In summary, Steve Smith and Virat Kohli are not just competitors on the field but also part of an intriguing narrative surrounding fielding excellence in cricket. As Kohli continues to excel, fans eagerly anticipate his next moves in both batting and fielding.
