Cricket fielding positions describe where players stand to stop runs and create chances. Close catchers such as slips wait for edges, while ring fielders cover singles in the infield. Boundary riders protect likely hitting areas and can turn a four into a two or catch a lofted shot.
Captains set fields around the bowler's plan. A bowler looking for an outside edge may use slips and a gully; a bowler targeting the stumps may keep catchers in front. In limited-overs cricket, fielding restrictions can limit how many players stand outside the inner circle during certain overs.
The batter's handedness, scoring strengths and the match phase all affect positioning. A captain may move a fielder after a boundary, a new batter arrives, or the bowler changes ends. Communication matters so players know whether to protect a boundary, stop a single or attack a catch.
Position names can vary slightly between teams and regions, and field maps are best read from the batter's perspective. Following the field changes alongside each over can reveal the tactical contest between captain, bowler and batter.
