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They have not only saved crucial runs but also provided invaluable breakthroughs at critical junctures
Royal Challengers Bangaluru (RCB) are renowned for their explosive batting and fiery pace attack. But behind the big sixes and searing yorkers lies another crucial element that often goes unnoticed: fielding.
Over the years, RCB has boasted some exceptional fielders, with a select few establishing themselves as safe hands in the high-pressure environment of the IPL. Today, we delve into the top five RCB players with the most catches in the tournament's history.
Rounding out the top five is R. Vinay Kumar, the experienced pacer who served RCB for several seasons. Known for his swing bowling and ability to take wickets in crucial moments, Vinay Kumar was also a reliable fielder.
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Vinay Kumar played for RCB from 2008 to 2013
He patrolled the boundary ropes with safe hands, pouching 22 catches in 70 matches, recording a catch-per-match ratio of 0.318. While his bowling might have grabbed more headlines, Vinay Kumar's steady presence in the field was crucial for RCB's success in the early seasons of the IPL.
Chahal, the wily leg-spinner, is synonymous with bamboozling batsmen with his deceptive deliveries. However, his contribution extends beyond taking wickets. Chahal's fielding, particularly at short mid-wicket, has often surprised viewers.
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Chahal in RCB colours
With his quick reflexes and anticipation skills, he has snaffled 24 catches in 113 matches, boasting a catch-per-match ratio of 0.214. While not the highest on this list, Chahal's fielding contributions perfectly complement his wicket-taking abilities, making him a true match-winner for RCB.
Siraj's journey with RCB is a story of remarkable growth. He arrived as a raw-pace bowler with express speed, but over the years, he has honed his skills to become a complete package. His fielding has come a long way, with Siraj now possessing a safe pair of hands, particularly in the deep square leg region.
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Siraj is a key member of RCB’s bowling attack
With 28 catches in 83 matches, his catch-per-match ratio of 0.337 is a respectable figure, and it's sure to improve as he continues to gain experience. Siraj's fielding prowess adds another dimension to his bowling attack, making him a valuable asset for RCB.
Following closely behind Kohli is the legendary AB de Villiers, a man whose brilliance transcended mere batting. De Villiers, fondly known as "Mr. 360" for his ability to hit the ball to any part of the ground, was equally adept in the field. His athleticism, agility, and knack for being in the right place at the right time made him a nightmare for batsmen, especially in the cover region.
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One of the best catch of IPL
Despite playing fewer matches than Kohli (157), De Villiers boasts a superior catch-per-match ratio of 0.673 (70 catches), a testament to his exceptional fielding skills. Many fans still remember his gravity-defying catches, leaving them wondering if he was human or a real-life superhero in disguise.
At the helm of this elite catching group sits none other than Virat Kohli, the former RCB captain and batting maestro. While renowned for his ferocious batting, Kohli has also established himself as a dependable fielder, particularly in the crucial slip cordon. His sharp reflexes, anticipation skills, and ability to pluck seemingly impossible catches out of thin air have earned him the respect of opposition batsmen and the adoration of RCB fans.
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Kohli taking a catch
With a staggering 123 catches in 263 matches, Kohli boasts an impressive catch-per-match ratio of 0.471. On numerous occasions, he has turned the tide of a match with a sensational grab, reminding everyone that a captain leads not just with the bat but also in the field.
