How to Catch a Cricket Ball

{{fa}}Catching is the action of fielders to get the batsman out by collecting the ball once hit in the air by the batsman. Catching is an element of fielding and one of the most important aspects of cricket. The more adept the fielder, the better cricketer he/she is.[[Category:Cricket]]

== Steps ==
=== Preparing for a Catch ===
# Know the rules. For taking a catch you should be aware of the rules made by the International Cricket Council (the governing body over cricket):[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 01.jpg|center]]
#* The batsman is not declared out if the ball is a no-ball or dead ball.
#* The fielder drops the ball before completely catching the ball.
#* The fielder steps over the boundary line.
#* The ball bounces before the fielder collects it.
# Take position. The fielder should be in a good position in order to catch the ball. An ideal stance would be bending your knees and making cup with your hands.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 02.jpg|center]]
#* It is essential for a slip fielder to bend on knees and keep hands pointing down, making a cup position. This will assist you in taking a low catch.
# Have a positive mind set. If you think you are a bad fielder, keep that thought out of your mind. Fielding depends on your attentiveness and your attitude towards game. Thinking in a positive way can help you become a better fielder.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 03.jpg|center]]
# Be attentive. Attentiveness is required for a good catch. You should expect that every next ball will come to you. In this way, you will be more attentive and  focused on the game.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 04.jpg|center]]

=== Taking a Catch ===
# Identify your fielding position. Be familiar with where you are standing, whether you are near the boundary or fielding in slip or gully. This will help in avoiding fallout with another player.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 05.jpg|center]]
#* Don't rush over every ball that goes high. Make an effort only for those which are either over you or in no-man's land. </br></br>
# React quickly. You must react within seconds . If you receive a catch over your chest take a step or two back and catch the ball.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 06.jpg|center]]
#Keep your eye on the ball. It is essential for a fielder to keep eye contact with the ball. Keep your eyes on the ball until it passes you else it would result in a dropped catch.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 07.jpg|center]]
#Make the cup. Make the cup with your hands and let the ball rest on your palm.[[Image:Catch a Cricket Ball Step 08.jpg|center]]
#Practice the proper form. Practice taking the catch over and over, whilst concentrating on using perfect form for each catch. Soon the catches will become second nature.

== Tips ==
*It is better to wear sunglasses if you are playing out in a sunny day.
*Try to be exactly down the ball and take the catch close to your body.
*Watch more cricket matches and pay close attention to techniques.
*Never get distracted, rather keep looking at the ball.
*If the ball goes within the gap, chase the ball at your best. Have a backup so that the ball can be passed over to the keeper.
*If you catch a ball very close to the boundary line and seem to be unbalanced, throw the ball within the rope and land properly and then try to take the catch back. Even if you are unsuccessful, you will contribute to your team by saving some runs.
*Call out if the ball is over nobody's position. This will help you take a good catch and will prevent misunderstanding with your co-fielders.
* Keep your hands away from your face, and be conscious of your fingers.

== Warnings ==
*Never take a catch with your fingers.
*Always take care of your safety and don't get too excited.
*Never take a catch directly in front of your face - broken noses hurt!

== Related wikiHows ==
*  [[Play Cricket]]
*  [[Be a Slip Fielder]]