6 Indian Cricketers With 100+ Catches In ODIs

Catches win matches — a phrase that holds timeless truth in the game of cricket. In One-Day Internationals (ODIs), where every run and wicket matters, the art of fielding has often turned the tide of matches. Over the decades, several Indian players have built a reputation not just with the bat or ball but with their electric fielding and safe hands.

Let’s take a look at six Indian cricketers who have taken over 100 catches in ODIs, leaving behind a legacy of reliability and brilliance on the field.

1. Mohammad Azharuddin – The Pioneer of Grace and Reflexes

•Catches: 156

•Matches: 334

Before fielding became a celebrated skill in Indian cricket, Mohammad Azharuddin set new standards in agility and anticipation. Known for his wristy batting, Azhar was equally elegant in the field, often positioned in the slips or inside the circle. His quick reflexes and soft hands made him a nightmare for batsmen attempting risky shots.

In an era when fielding standards weren’t as high as today, Azhar’s athleticism stood out. His tally of 156 catches remains the highest by an Indian in ODIs. Many remember his sharp catches at backward point and slip that would turn games in India’s favor. Azharuddin laid the foundation for the fielding culture that later generations built upon.

2. Sachin Tendulkar – The Reliable Maestro

•Catches: 140

•Matches: 463

While Sachin Tendulkar is celebrated primarily for his batting records, his fielding contributions are equally commendable. Across a glittering ODI career spanning over two decades, Tendulkar maintained remarkable consistency as a fielder.

Whether stationed in the outfield or in the slips, his awareness and safe hands often provided crucial breakthroughs. Tendulkar’s 140 ODI catches showcase his commitment to every aspect of the game. His ability to stay alert, even after long batting innings, highlighted his professionalism and unmatched cricketing discipline.

3. Rahul Dravid – The Wall Behind and Beyond the Stumps

•Catches: 124

•Matches: 344

Rahul Dravid, famously known as The Wall, wasn’t just a defensive rock with the bat — he was also one of India’s safest fielders. Early in his career, Dravid served as a wicketkeeper in ODIs to balance team composition, adding several catches behind the stumps to his name.

Even when not keeping, his precision at slip and point made him a dependable fielder. His 124 ODI catches reflect his sharp anticipation, discipline, and commitment to the team’s needs. Dravid’s calm demeanor often concealed his razor-sharp reflexes — a blend of patience and perfection that made him a complete cricketer.

4. Virat Kohli – The Modern Fitness Icon

•Catches: 150+ (and counting)

•Matches: 290+

Modern Indian cricket owes its fitness revolution largely to Virat Kohli. His athleticism, sharp reflexes, and unmatched intensity have made him one of the best fielders in the world. Whether patrolling the covers or chasing down boundaries, Kohli’s commitment to excellence is unwavering.

Kohli’s 150-plus catches (as of recent records) highlight his longevity and consistency. His diving stops and bullet throws have saved countless runs for India, while his catching under pressure has often sealed crucial moments in matches. For the younger generation, Kohli represents the gold standard of fielding fitness and passion.

5. Suresh Raina – The Livewire in the Field

•Catches: 102

•Matches: 226

If energy and enthusiasm had a face in Indian cricket, it would be Suresh Raina. Known for his electric presence on the field, Raina was a game-changer with his fielding alone. His ability to take blinders in the infield and dive full-length to cut off boundaries made him an invaluable asset in limited-overs cricket.

Raina’s 102 ODI catches might not sound massive in comparison, but each one of them showcased his remarkable reflexes and athletic ability. He inspired a generation of young cricketers to focus on fielding as much as batting and bowling — a cultural shift that modern Indian cricket thrives on.

6. Yuvraj Singh – The Stylish Match-Winner

•Catches: 120

•Matches: 304

A true match-winner with both bat and ball, Yuvraj Singh was also a complete fielder. His tall frame and quick movements made him exceptional in the inner circle, particularly at point and cover. Many iconic moments — like his diving catches in the 2011 World Cup — underline his fearless fielding style.

Yuvraj’s 120 catches in ODIs cement his status as one of India’s most complete cricketers. Even after recovering from serious health setbacks, his commitment to fielding excellence never dipped. His passion and energy inspired countless players who grew up watching his flamboyant yet disciplined approach to the game.

From Azharuddin’s elegance to Kohli’s athleticism, India’s ODI fielding story has evolved dramatically over the decades. These six players — Azharuddin, Tendulkar, Dravid, Kohli, Yuvraj, and Raina — not only displayed unmatched consistency but also helped transform India into one of the best fielding sides in the world.

Their 100+ catches symbolize more than just numbers; they represent dedication, discipline, and the art of making every opportunity count.