The World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, which runs from 2021 to 2023, has emerged as an exciting competition among the top cricketing nations, with teams fighting for a spot in the ultimate battle. Amid the excitement, fielders’ roles become critical in Test cricket. While bowlers seek wickets and batters want runs, fielders play an important part in assisting their team’s bowling attack by grabbing catches and causing run-outs.
Their quickness, reactions, and anticipation are critical in creating opportunities and changing the game in their favor. Fielders provide a vital contribution to the outcome of a Test match, from spectacular catches to agile saves on the boundary. So today in this article we will discuss the top 3 players with the highest number of catches in the WTC cycle 2021-23.
3. Jack Crawley (24 catches, 17 matches)
During the exciting World Test Championship 2021-23, England batter Jack Crawley demonstrated his exceptional skills as a cricketer by securing an incredible total of 24 catches in only 17 Test matches. His superb play on the pitch propelled him to the third-highest catch-taker in the tournament. In the slip cordon, Jack’s superb quickness, anticipation, and safe hands made him a formidable force. His contribution was critical to his team’s victory throughout the championship. Jack Crawley’s achievement cemented his place as a top-tier fielder in the playing xi.
2. Joe Root (31 catches in 22 matches)
Joe Root, England’s outstanding batter, demonstrated his excellent fielding abilities during the WTC 2021-23. With his extraordinary catching ability, Root secured an astounding 31 receptions in 22 matches, becoming the tournament’s second-highest catcher. Throughout the competition, his solid hands and quickness on the pitch created vital breakthroughs for England.
In addition to his stellar fielding, Root was the WTC’s leading run-scorer, accumulating a whopping 1915 runs in just 22 games. His consistency and commitment shone through as he batted for eight hundred and six half-centuries, demonstrating his class and supremacy as a batsman. Root’s remarkable run-scoring ability was crucial to England’s triumph, making him a valuable member of the team throughout the tournament.
1. Steve Smith (31 catches in 19 matches)
Former Australia captain Steve Smith demonstrated his remarkable fielding abilities at the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23, where he finished as the equal highest catch-taker. Smith established himself as a powerful force on the field with 31 catches in just 19 games.
As the Test Championship nears its conclusion, Smith will meet India in the highly anticipated finals at the Oval on June 7. Smith’s immense experience and extraordinary batting prowess will be critical for Australia as they seek to win the prized Test Championship against a tough Indian team. His presence on the team brings steadiness as well as a flare.