Having watched all these catches many times, I am always amazed at the fantastic, almost super-human efforts of these wonderful fielders.
But in reality, these catches should re-affirm in us the belief that you can make great catches too! It is within the capabilities af every fielder to change the course of a game with one piece of inspirational fielding.
There is a very famous “Classic Catch” video of former footballer Paul ‘Fatty Vautin’ taking one of the best outfield catches ever seen in Australia. Playing in a nationally televised benefit match, it shows why ANYONE can take a great catch on his day! In that one moment in time, Vautin shows all the attributes of a match-winning fieldsman – the same attributes showcased in the video clips above:
Sound technique
Awareness
Athleticism
Determination
Self-belief
But fielders like Collingwood, Ponting, Rhodes and de Villiers take more than their share of great catches because they have recognized that the more you train to develop these attributes, the more likely you are to snaffle that screamer and turn the game. So they practice, practice, practice!
So what sort of practice can a player do to develop these attributes?
Sound technique – This can be developed through repetition. Take as many catches as possible at training and focus each time on employing the correct technique. Feet, shoulders head and hands all need to be put into the correct positions again and again and again. Catches off the bat, off a slips cradle or from the hand can all be employed to develop sound technique. Make sure you are changing the angles between thrower, bat and fielder regularly so that you are always working at getting in the right position.
Awareness – Catching drills can never be dull because each catch is unique and presents a new challenge to the fielder. So while the fielder is practicing sound technique, they should also be keeping themselves aware of the specific challenge of each catch and practicing their anticipation. This often translates into that split second advantage the great catcher seems to have over mere mortals. Remember – anticipation is only useful when combined with athleticism!
Athleticism - As I have said before in a number of different articles, all players should be working to continually develop their athleticism. This can be done via cricket-specific drills involving catching, throwing, running etc. But you can also use drills and activities that are not cricket-based to effectively develop your athleticism. Cross training can be very helpful here. Get on the net and see what drills are out there! There is a wealth of information at your fingertips so you should never be short of challenging, interesting and fresh drills.
Determination – This is often the area that separates the men from the boys! To develop this attribute, you need to approach each training session with a single-minded attitude to attack every chance and really push yourself physically to dive further, jump higher anticipate quicker…. By working to your absolute physical maximum, you develop mental toughness that stands you in great stead in games, be it in the field, or batting or bowling. The more you can push yourself at training the more likely you are to take that screamer on a weekend.
Self-Belief – When you train with a high level of intensity, you will be surprised at the number of amazing catches you can take! The more ‘classics’ you take at training, the more likely you are to take a classic when it counts in a game, simply because you are used to making the movements and you really believe you can do it! We often talk about great fielders always wanting the ball to come their way. This is because they believe that when the ball does come their way, they will take the catch, make the run out or save the boundary. This elf-belief can only come from constant and intense practice.
So look at this video again, and this time, don’t just be amazed by the wonderful, spectacular pieces of fielding. Realize that with a great deal of practice, you can make catches like these some day. And when you do, I promise you will never forget the exhilaration that accompanies your effort!
