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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand was packed with thrilling moments, but one highlight stood out above all – the incredible catch by Glenn Phillips to dismiss Shubman Gill. While India ultimately clinched their third Champions Trophy title, Phillips’ moment of brilliance lit up the match, leaving cricket fans, analysts, and even legendary fielders in awe.
As Gill attempted to loft a delivery over extra cover, Phillips produced an astonishing one-handed catch, leaping mid-air and plucking the ball in just 0.78 seconds. The sheer athleticism and lightning-fast reflexes stunned not just the batter but also commentators and fans worldwide. The video of the catch went viral on social media, sparking widespread debate about whether Phillips is the best fielder of this generation.
Jonty Rhodes’ epic post after a fan calls Glenn Phillips the ‘best fielder’
The fielding brilliance of Phillips drew comparisons to Jonty Rhodes, one of cricket’s all-time greats. A fan on social media, after watching the catch, boldly stated:
“Sorry, @JontyRhodes8, we believe Phillips is the best fielder of this generation,” a fan wrote.
Surprisingly, the South African legend agreed with the fan’s statement, replying with humility:
“Don’t be sorry, I agree,” Jonty wrote.
Don’t be sorry, I agree https://t.co/blN2eYm690
— Jonty Rhodes (@JontyRhodes8) March 10, 2025
This was a rare and significant acknowledgment from Rhodes, who redefined fielding standards in the 1990s with his gravity-defying efforts. His famous flying run-out of Inzamam-ul-Haq in the 1992 World Cup remains one of the most iconic moments in cricket history. Rhodes’ recognition of Phillips’ fielding prowess has only fueled the debate over the greatest fielder of all time.
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A game-changer in the field
Phillips’ sensational catch wasn’t a one-off moment. His fielding throughout the Champions Trophy 2025 was nothing short of extraordinary, proving why he is one of the most valuable assets in world cricket today.
Other iconic catches by Phillips in the tournament:
- Dismissing Virat Kohli (Group Stage)
- Phillips had already made headlines earlier in the tournament when he took a blinder to dismiss Virat Kohli. Positioned at short mid-wicket, he dived full stretch to grab a sharp chance, leaving the Indian batting great stunned. Kohli, who is known for his calm demeanor, could only shake his head in disbelief.
- Boundary-Line Acrobatics
- Against South Africa, Phillips prevented a certain six with an airborne effort, flicking the ball back in play mid-air before crossing the boundary. This athletic maneuver saved crucial runs for New Zealand, showcasing his all-round fielding brilliance.
Phillips has been a fielding machine, saving an estimated 20+ runs per match through his quick reflexes, direct hits, and jaw-dropping catches. His contribution goes far beyond the scoreboard – his presence on the field instills fear in opposition batters, forcing them to rethink risky singles or aerial shots.
