Jonty Rhodes was widely regarded as the greatest fielder in the history of cricket. The former South African cricketer redefined fielding standards with his agility, speed, and extraordinary reflexes. His iconic run-out of Inzamam-ul-Haq in the 1992 World Cup remains one of the most memorable moments in cricket history. Rhodes’ impact on the game was so profound that teams started giving special emphasis to fielding as a crucial aspect of their strategy. His diving stops, acrobatic catches, and rocket-like throws from backward point set new benchmarks that fielders still aspire to match.
Who can match Jonty Rhodes in today’s cricket?
Matching Rhodes’ fielding brilliance is no easy task. Modern cricket has produced many outstanding fielders, each bringing a unique skill set to the game. Players like Ravindra Jadeja, Ben Stokes, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith have displayed remarkable fielding skills. Jadeja’s direct hits and athletic stops, Stokes’ gravity-defying catches, and Smith’s sharp reflexes in the slips make them stand out. However, finding someone who embodies Rhodes’ complete fielding package remains a tough debate.
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Wasim Akram names his pick
During the recently concluded Champions Trophy league match between India and New Zealand, Glenn Phillips stunned the cricketing world with a breathtaking catch of Virat Kohli. The Kiwi cricketer leaped into the air, plucking the ball out of nowhere, leaving fans and experts in awe. Following this spectacular effort, legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram heaped praise on Phillips and compared him to the great Rhodes.
“If there is anyone who is the best fielder currently, it is Glenn Phillips. He is another Jonty Rhodes. He is like a superman on the field,” said Akram as quoted by NDTV.
“This guy is just a treat to watch in fielding, and he can change the game,” he added.
While the debate over the best modern-day fielder will continue, Akram’s statement has put Phillips at the forefront of the discussion. With his incredible athleticism, safe hands, and game-changing presence in the field, Phillips has proven himself as one of the finest fielders of this era.
