In the enthralling world of One Day International (ODI) cricket, amidst the spectacle of powerful batting and cunning bowling, there exists a subtle yet crucial art – fielding. The ability to take a spectacular catch can change the tide of a match and leave spectators awe-struck. Over the years, some of the finest cricketers have showcased their defensive mastery and etched their names in the list of the 10 most catches in ODI cricket. Join us as we delve into the records and achievements of these extraordinary players who have left an indelible mark in the field.
Top 10 Highest Catches in ODI Cricket History
Player | Span | Mat | Inns | Catches |
DPMD Jayawardene (SL) | 1998-2015 | 448 | 443 | 218 |
RT Ponting (AUS) | 1995-2012 | 375 | 372 | 160 |
M Azharuddin (IND) | 1985-2000 | 334 | 332 | 156 |
V Kohli (IND) | 2008-2024 | 294 | 291 | 152 |
LRPL Taylor (NZ) | 2006-2022 | 236 | 232 | 142 |
SR Tendulkar (IND) | 1989-2012 | 463 | 456 | 140 |
SP Fleming (NZ) | 1994-2007 | 280 | 276 | 133 |
JH Kallis (SA) | 1996-2014 | 328 | 324 | 131 |
Younis Khan (PAK) | 2000-2015 | 265 | 257 | 130 |
M Muralidaran (SL) | 1993-2011 | 350 | 347 | 130 |
AR Border (AUS) | 1979-1994 | 273 | 270 | 127 |
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1. Mahela Jayawardene – The Slip Maestro

Mahela Jayawardene, the graceful Sri Lankan batsman, was an epitome of elegance on the field as well. Positioned in the slip cordon, Jayawardene’s nimble hands plucked 218 catches during his illustrious ODI career, making him the player with the most catches in ODI cricket. His uncanny ability to anticipate the ball’s trajectory and flawless catching technique made him a slip fielding marvel.
2. Ricky Ponting – The Flying Australian

Ricky Ponting, the Australian batting legend, was a complete package with a knack for gravity-defying catches. Whether stationed in the outfield or close to the batsman, Ponting’s acrobatic leaps often snatched certain boundaries from thin air. With an impressive tally of 160 catches, he holds one of the highest catches in ODI cricket. Ponting’s fielding was as electrifying as his batting.
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3. Mohammad Azharuddin – The Feline Indian

Mohammad Azharuddin, the stylish Indian batsman, possessed a fielding agility akin to a feline. His cat-like reflexes allowed him to take 156 catches during his ODI career. Azharuddin’s lightning-quick movements and sharp anticipation made him a nightmare for batsmen seeking quick runs.
4. Sachin Tendulkar – The Cricketing Superman

Sachin Tendulkar, the cricketing icon, was not just a batting marvel but also a magnetic fielder. Despite his diminutive stature, Tendulkar’s safe hands and athleticism helped him secure 140 catches in ODIs, placing him high on the list of players with the most catches in ODI cricket. His dedication to fielding was reflective of his commitment to the game.
5. Ross Taylor – The Kiwi Wall

Ross Taylor, the rock-solid New Zealand batsman, was equally reliable on the field. Taylor’s 139 catches in ODIs highlighted his consistency as a fielder and his ability to pluck catches in crucial moments. His presence in the outfield often served as a reassuring factor for his team.
6. Virat Kohli – The Indian Phenom

Virat Kohli, the modern-day cricketing sensation, brought his dynamic fielding abilities to complement his aggressive batting. With 152 catches in ODIs, Kohli exhibited his athleticism and remarkable catching skills, earning him a place among the players with the most catches in ODI cricket. His hunger for excellence extended to every facet of the game, including fielding.
7. Stephen Fleming – The Kiwi General

Stephen Fleming, the former captain of New Zealand, was an astute leader and an exemplary fielder. His 133 catches in ODIs were a testament to his tactical awareness and positioning on the field. Fleming’s safe hands often stifled opposition batsmen and turned the course of matches.
8. Jacques Kallis – The Proteas Legend

Jacques Kallis, the South African all-rounder, had a towering presence in every aspect of the game. His fielding was no exception, and he held onto 131 catches in ODIs. Kallis’ versatility and contribution with both bat and ball made him a cricketing great.
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9. Younis Khan – The Pakistani Sentry

Younis Khan, the gritty Pakistani batsman, was a sentinel in the field. His 130 catches in ODIs were a testament to his unwavering commitment to precision and discipline. Younis’ presence in the slip cordon instilled confidence in his bowling attack.
10. Muttiah Muralitharan – The Spin Wizard’s Safe Hands

Muttiah Muralitharan, the legendary Sri Lankan spinner, had a bag full of tricks on the field. As a spinner, he may not have had as many catching opportunities, but his 130 catches in ODIs proved his versatility and impact as an all-round cricketer.
The list of the 10 most catches in ODI cricket is a testament to the importance of fielding in modern cricket. Spectacular catches not only electrify the crowd but also inject energy and motivation into the team. The players on this list have redefined fielding standards and set a benchmark for future generations of cricketers.
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FAQs About Most Catches in ODI Cricket
Who holds the record for the most catches in ODI cricket?
Mahela Jayawardene holds the record for the most catches in ODI cricket, with a staggering total of 218 catches.
Which country has the most players in the top 10 for most catches in ODIs?
Sri Lanka and India share the honors, with three players each in the top 10 list of most catches in ODIs.
Can a wicketkeeper be listed among the top catchers in ODIs?
Yes, wicketkeepers are eligible to be listed among the top catchers in ODIs, and several wicketkeepers have impressive catch records in the format.
Is Ricky Ponting the only Australian in the top 10 list?
Yes, Ricky Ponting is the sole Australian player in the top 10 list for most catches in ODI cricket.
How does the ranking change if we include all formats of cricket?
If we include all formats of cricket, some players from the list may be overtaken by those who have performed exceptionally in Test matches or T20 internationals.