LONDON — Joe Root, England’s batting maestro and one of the finest slip fielders in Test cricket history, has added another milestone to his illustrious career. Fresh off breaking the record for the most catches by an England fielder in Test cricket, Root sat down with BBC Sport to reflect on the art of catching—a skill he has honed to near-perfection over his 13-year international career.
Root’s 182nd catch, surpassing Sir Alastair Cook’s previous record of 175, came during England’s recent Test against India. The moment was a testament to his relentless dedication to fielding, an aspect of the game he describes as "just as rewarding as scoring runs, if not more so in tight situations."
The Making of a Catching Legend
Root’s journey to becoming one of the safest pairs of hands in cricket began in his early years. "I was always the kid who wanted to be in the thick of the action," he recalls. "Whether it was diving around in the backyard or standing at slip during school matches, I loved the challenge of taking catches. It’s about anticipation, reflexes, and, most importantly, trust in your own ability."
His technique, often praised for its simplicity and efficiency, is the result of countless hours of practice. Root emphasizes the importance of repetition: "You have to train your hands and eyes to work together. It’s not just about standing there—it’s about reading the bowler, the batter’s movements, and positioning yourself accordingly."
Key Elements of Root’s Catching Success
Root breaks down the fundamentals that have made him a standout fielder:
- Footwork: "Being light on your feet ensures you’re always balanced."
- Hand Position: "Soft hands absorb the ball’s impact better."
- Concentration: "Every ball could come to you—stay switched on."
- Teamwork: "Communication with the bowler and other slips is crucial."
The Mental Side of Fielding
Root admits that slip fielding is as much a mental game as it is physical. "There’s pressure, especially in Test cricket where one drop can change the game. But I thrive on that. You have to back yourself, even after a mistake. The best catchers are the ones who forget the last ball and focus on the next."
He credits former England fielding coach Paul Collingwood for sharpening his mindset. "Colly drilled into us that fielding wins matches. He’d say, ‘If you’re not contributing with the bat, make sure you’re contributing in the field.’ That stuck with me."
Record-Breaking Moments and Memorable Catches
Among Root’s 182 catches, a few stand out. His one-handed blinder to dismiss Steve Smith in the 2019 Ashes remains a fan favorite. "That was pure instinct. Smith edged it late, and I just stuck my hand out. Sometimes, you don’t even think—you just react."
Another unforgettable moment was his catch to remove Kane Williamson during England’s tour of New Zealand in 2018. "Kane’s such a great player, and those low edges are tough. That one felt like slow motion—I could see it all the way into my hands."
The Future of Fielding in Test Cricket
Root believes the standard of fielding in Test cricket has never been higher. "Look at guys like Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, or Ben Stokes—they’re incredible athletes. The game’s evolving, and fielding is now a non-negotiable part of being a top Test cricketer."
He also highlights the role of technology in improving fielding standards. "Video analysis helps us spot patterns in batters’ edges. We study where they’re likely to nick it and adjust our positions accordingly."
A Message to Young Fielders
Root’s advice to aspiring slip fielders is straightforward: "Practice like it’s a match. Dive, stretch, and push your limits. And don’t be afraid to fail—every drop is a lesson. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out of it."
As he looks ahead, Root isn’t done yet. "I want to keep setting the standard. Fielding is my passion, and if I can inspire the next generation to take pride in it, that’s a legacy I’d be proud of."
With 182 catches and counting, Joe Root’s name is now etched in cricket history. But for the man himself, the pursuit of excellence continues. "Records are nice, but what matters most is contributing to the team’s success. That’s what drives me."