When we talk about the Indian Premier League (IPL), batting records and bowling stats often dominate headlines. But cricket, especially in the modern era, is a three-dimensional game, and fielding has become equally crucial. In this article, we look at the best fielders in IPL history, focusing on legends like Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, and Rohit Sharma
1. Virat Kohli – The Face of Consistency
- Team: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
- Matches: 260
- Innings: 258
- Catches: 116
- Run Outs: 3
- Dismissals/Inning: 0.449
Virat Kohli, often hailed as the King of IPL, isn’t just a batting maestro but also a sharp presence on the field. With 116 catches and a few electrifying run-outs, Kohli has been a reliable fielder throughout his IPL career. His reflexes, athleticism, and commitment make him one of the best fielders in IPL history. Whether in the inner circle or patrolling the boundary, Kohli’s fielding performances have often changed the course of crucial matches for RCB.
Whether it’s a diving catch at cover or a smart throw from the boundary, Kohli’s fielding has saved RCB crucial runs over the years.
2. Suresh Raina – Mr. IPL & Fielding Icon
- Teams: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Gujarat Lions (GL)
- Matches: 205
- Innings: 204
- Catches: 109
- Run Outs: 3
- Dismissals/Inning: 0.534
Suresh Raina, fondly called Mr. IPL, is one of the most consistent and impactful fielders the tournament has ever seen. His record of 109 catches and superb run-out skills make him a complete package. Known for his quick reflexes and agility in the inner circle, Raina was always a threat to the opposition. His presence alone boosted the team’s fielding unit, cementing his place among the best fielders in IPL history.
Raina’s fielding in the inner ring was often game-changing. His 0.534 dismissals per innings is one of the highest in IPL, underlining his value as a fielder.
3. Ravindra Jadeja – The Best Thrower in the Game
- Teams: CSK, Gujarat Lions, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Rajasthan Royals
- Matches: 248
- Innings: 247
- Catches: 106
- Run Outs: 4
- Dismissals/Inning: 0.429
If fielding had a face in India, it would be Ravindra Jadeja. Known for his rocket throws and bullet dives, Jadeja has taken 106 catches and created 4 brilliant run-outs. His lightning speed and direct hits are legendary.
His all-round skills combined with his elite fielding make him a pillar in the list of best fielders in IPL history.
4. Kieron Pollard – Safe Hands in the Deep
- Team: Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Matches: 189
- Innings: 189
- Catches: 103
- Run Outs: 2
- Dismissals/Inning: 0.544
Pollard was known for his big-hitting abilities, but he’s also been one of the safest hands in the outfield. He took 103 catches, many of them at the boundary line under pressure. His height and timing made him a specialist in stopping sixes and converting them into wickets.
Among the top fielders in IPL, Pollard holds the highest dismissals per inning ratio – 0.544, which shows his impact even in limited opportunities.
5. Rohit Sharma – A Smart Fielder with Big Impact
- Teams: Deccan Chargers, Mumbai Indians
- Matches: 264
- Innings: 264
- Catches: 101
- Run Outs: 3
- Dismissals/Inning: 0.382
Rohit Sharma, the most successful IPL captain with 5 trophies, has also contributed significantly in the field. His 101 catches and alertness in the slips and circle often go unnoticed due to his captaincy and batting records.
But when you look at the stats, Rohit has played a huge part in fielding dismissals, especially in pressure situations.
IPL Fielding Comparison Table
| Player | Matches | Innings | Catches | Run Outs | Dismissals/Inning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 260 | 258 | 116 | 3 | 0.449 |
| Suresh Raina | 205 | 204 | 109 | 3 | 0.534 |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 248 | 247 | 106 | 4 | 0.429 |
| Kieron Pollard | 189 | 189 | 103 | 2 | 0.544 |
| Rohit Sharma | 264 | 264 | 101 | 3 | 0.382 |
Who is the Best Fielder in IPL History?
Based on dismissals per innings and overall impact, Kieron Pollard holds the top spot in efficiency, while Virat Kohli and Raina lead in sheer volume. However, if you value run-saving throws and magical moments, Ravindra Jadeja is often considered the best in Indian cricket.
Each of these players has created unforgettable fielding moments that swung matches and lifted teams.
Why Fielding Matters in IPL
- Fielding decides tight matches.
- One catch or run-out can change momentum.
- Agile fielders save 10–20 runs per match.
- Winning teams always have strong fielding units.
Source:-sportsamrath
Source :-Wikipedia
Read More:-Best IPL Batsmen of All Time (2008–2025)
