Cricket is not only about batting and bowling; fielding plays an equally important role in deciding the outcome of a match. A strong batting line-up can collapse if sharp fielders take breathtaking catches, and a bowling attack becomes even more dangerous when supported by agile players who can save runs in the field. Over the years, many cricketers have revolutionized the art of fielding with their incredible speed, sharp reflexes, and match-turning moments.

In this article, we bring you the Top 10 Best Fielders in the World (2025 updated list) who are known as game-changers on the field. We will also explore why they are considered among the best fielders in cricket history, along with their contributions to their teams.

1. Jonty Rhodes (South Africa) – The Pioneer of Modern Fielding

When someone asks, “Who is the best fielder in cricket history?”, the first name that comes to mind is Jonty Rhodes.

• Nicknamed the Superman of Cricket, Rhodes transformed fielding into an art during the 1990s.
• His famous run-out of Inzamam-ul-Haq in the 1992 World Cup remains iconic.
• Rhodes specialized in point and backward point positions, diving full length to stop boundaries.

Even though retired, Jonty Rhodes continues to inspire the next generation. Many still call him the world’s best fielder of all time.

2. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – The Modern-Day Superman

When it comes to the best fielder in the world right now, Ravindra Jadeja tops the list.

• Jadeja is lightning-quick in the infield and equally dangerous in the deep.
• His bullet-arm throws have often caught batsmen short of their crease.
• Whether it is a Test match or IPL game, Jadeja saves 10–15 runs every game, making him one of the most valuable players.

He is often compared to Jonty Rhodes and widely regarded as the best fielder in India in 2025.

3. AB de Villiers (South Africa) – Mr. 360 in the Field Too

• While AB de Villiers is known as Mr. 360° for his batting, his fielding skills are equally legendary.
• He was exceptional behind the stumps as a wicketkeeper and also brilliant in the outfield.
• ABD has pulled off stunning catches in ODIs, T20s, and the IPL.

De Villiers redefined versatility, proving he is one of the top 10 best fielders in world cricket.

4. Suresh Raina (India) – The Most Loved Indian Fielder

• Known as the backbone of India’s middle-order for years, Suresh Raina was also among the best Indian fielders.
• His quick reflexes and safe hands made him a favorite at cover and point positions.
• Raina’s diving catches and boundary saves in the IPL earned him huge respect.

He is remembered as one of the best fielders in Indian cricket history.

5. Glenn Maxwell (Australia) – The Big Show in the Field

• Maxwell is famous not just for his explosive batting but also for his superb fielding skills.
• He is athletic, sharp, and capable of pulling off stunners at the boundary.
• His one-handed catches and direct throws are a treat for fans.

He is considered one of the best Australian fielders in world cricket.

6. Paul Collingwood (England) – The Safe Hands

• England’s former all-rounder Paul Collingwood was a safe pair of hands anywhere on the field.
• His slip catching and backward point dives made him one of the finest fielders of his era.
• Collingwood also had a knack for taking pressure catches in big matches.

He remains one of the top English fielders in cricket history.

7. Steve Smith (Australia) – The Acrobat at Slip

• Steve Smith may be known for his batting genius, but his fielding is equally outstanding.
• He is among the best slip fielders in Test cricket, with lightning-fast reflexes.
• Smith has taken multiple unforgettable catches that shifted the momentum of matches.

Smith ranks high on the list of best fielders in the world in 2025.

8. Faf du Plessis (South Africa) – The Wall at Boundary

• Former South African captain Faf du Plessis is among the best boundary fielders in the world.
• His jaw-dropping catches in the IPL and international matches are proof of his agility.
• He is fearless when it comes to diving on hard surfaces.

Faf is one of the top 10 best fielders in cricket worldwide.

9. Ben Stokes (England) – The Match-Winner Everywhere

• England’s star all-rounder Ben Stokes is not just a big-match player with the bat and ball; his fielding is also world-class.
• Known for his one-handed stunners, Stokes has redefined fielding standards in modern cricket.
• His athleticism and presence of mind make him one of the best cricket fielders in the world today.

10. Kieron Pollard (West Indies) – The Giant Athlete

• At 6’5”, Pollard uses his height and reach to pull off some of the greatest catches in cricket history.
• His stunning boundary catches in the IPL have gone viral globally.
• Pollard’s anticipation and safe hands make him one of the best T20 fielders ever.

Honorable Mentions

Apart from these top 10 best fielders in the world, many others deserve credit:

• Martin Guptill (New Zealand)
• Andrew Symonds (Australia)
• Herschelle Gibbs (South Africa)
• David Warner (Australia)
• Hardik Pandya (India)

These names show that fielding is now as crucial as batting and bowling.

Conclusion

Fielding has evolved into a game-changing skill in modern cricket. From Jonty Rhodes – the pioneer, to Ravindra Jadeja – the present superstar, the list of the best fielders in the world continues to inspire upcoming players. A single catch, run-out, or boundary save can decide the result of a match, making these players legends in their own right.

So, when fans ask, “Who is the best fielder in cricket right now?” or “Who is the world’s best fielder of all time?” — the answer lies in the brilliance of these extraordinary cricketers.