Root shatters Dravid record! See Test cricket’s best catchers

England’s cricket star Joe Root has etched his name further into the record books, claiming the most catches by a fielder in Test cricket history, surpassing Indian legend Rahul Dravid.

Root Reaches New Heights

During Day 2 of the third Test against India at Lord’s, Joe Root showcased his incredible fielding prowess. He snatched a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss India’s Karun Nair, marking his 211th grab in Test cricket.

This remarkable feat saw Root eclipse Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record of 210 catches. Dravid achieved his tally in 164 Tests, while Root reached this milestone in just his 156th Test match, highlighting his efficiency and longevity in the game.

Joining Cricket’s Catching Elite

Root now stands at the pinnacle, but he’s joined by an exclusive group of players who have dominated the fielding charts. Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene holds the third spot with 205 catches from 149 Tests, known for his exceptional close-in fielding.

Among active cricketers, Australia’s Steve Smith is hot on Root’s heels, having secured 200 catches in 118 Tests. Smith shares the fourth position with South African great Jacques Kallis, who also recorded 200 catches in his 166 Test matches. These five players are the only ones in Test history to have reached or surpassed the 200-catch mark.

The Art of the Catch

Beyond the sheer numbers, the skill of Test match catching is a testament to immense concentration and discipline. Root himself shed light on the mental aspect of fielding, explaining the constant training involved.

“You’re training your body, over and over again, that when the ball comes, you’re in the right position, lined up nicely, and staying nice and relaxed,” Root shared with BBC. He emphasized that even if it takes days for a chance to come, the ingrained practice helps prevent panic.

He added that certain match conditions can keep fielders “in the game” mentally, while other times, a catch can come “out of nowhere,” requiring instant readiness.

Beyond the Numbers: Catching Efficiency

While quantity is impressive, efficiency is key. Joe Root’s catching efficiency stands at 76.8%, making him the sixth-best among fielders with 75 or more catches in Test cricket. New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, with 76 grabs, boasts an even higher efficiency of 88.3%, showcasing his reliability.

Key Takeaways

• Joe Root is now the leading non-wicketkeeper catcher in Test cricket with 211 catches.
• He surpassed Rahul Dravid’s previous record of 210 catches.
• Only five players, including Root, have taken 200 or more catches in Test history.

Top Catchers in Test Cricket History

Here’s a look at the players with the most catches in Test cricket:

Root’s continuous excellence, both with the bat and in the field, solidifies his place as one of cricket’s modern greats.