Close-In Catch (Short Leg / Silly Point)

Catches taken within 2–3 m of the bat at short leg, silly point or leg slip — pure reflex (Eknath Solkar, Ajinkya Rahane).

Modern fielding standards were rewritten by South Africa's Jonty Rhodes in the 1990s; the flat, one-bounce throw and sliding stop are now coached from junior level.

Crouched low, hands ready, eyes never blinking through the moment of impact on the bat.

Watching the bowler instead of the bat — train to lock eyes on the ball as it pitches.

Direct hits to head and groin; safety equipment is non-negotiable.