Substitute fielders are often overlooked — they don’t bat, they don’t bowl — but sometimes, they change the entire game. From crucial catches to run-outs in pressure moments, these substitute fielders went from the sidelines to the spotlight and became unexpected heroes.
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Here are the top 10 substitute fielders in cricket who turned the tide when no one saw it coming.
1. Gary Pratt – England vs Australia, 2005 Ashes
Pratt ran out Ricky Ponting with a direct hit — a moment that changed the series. Ponting was furious, but England had found an unlikely hero.
Why It Mattered:
It shifted momentum in the Ashes and became one of the most famous run-outs in history.
2. Virat Kohli – India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2012
Kohli came in as a substitute fielder after cramps and took a sensational diving catch to dismiss Shahid Afridi in a tight chase.
Why It Mattered:
A young Kohli showed hunger and commitment, igniting a spark that led to the win.
3. Rahul Dravid – India vs England, 2007
Dravid, subbed in the field late, took a low catch at slip to remove a set batsman. He wasn’t even in the XI but still delivered.
Why It Mattered:
Proof that class never retires — even on the bench.
4. Faf du Plessis – South Africa vs India, 2011 WC
Faf, a young substitute fielder, executed a brilliant throw to run out Sehwag and shifted the momentum.
Why It Mattered:
It showcased South Africa’s commitment to fielding excellence, even off the bench.
5. Michael Clarke – Australia vs India, 2008
Clarke came on as a sub, took two catches in quick succession during the final session of the Test, sealing a narrow win.
Why It Mattered:
His fielding helped Australia clinch a dramatic Test with minutes to spare.
6. Abhinav Mukund – India vs West Indies, 2018
Took a brilliant catch as a substitute to remove Shimron Hetmyer when he was accelerating.
Why It Mattered:
Showed sharp reflexes and helped India control a tricky chase.
7. Subhman Gill – India vs Australia, 2020-21 Gabba Test
Gill, subbing in the field, took a sharp low catch that removed Labuschagne, crucial in India’s legendary series win.
Why It Mattered:
Part of India’s gritty, injury-hit squad — even the subs made an impact.
8. David Miller – SA vs England, 2016
Miller wasn’t playing but took a pressure catch in the deep during a tense finish, showing cool nerves.
Why It Mattered:
When it mattered most, the sub held his nerve.
9. Anamul Haque – Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe, 2022
Anamul, a sub, ran in from third man and threw down the stumps with a direct hit to dismiss a well-set Sikandar Raza.
Why It Mattered:
Bangladesh won narrowly, and Anamul’s effort was the turning point.
10. Marnus Labuschagne – Australia vs India, 2018
Before becoming a regular, Marnus came on as a subfielder and took a stunning diving catch at cover, impressing everyone.
Why It Mattered:
It was a sign of what was to come: hustle, energy, and commitment.
These substitute fielders didn’t need a bat or ball to shine. All they had was a chance — and they grabbed it. From direct hits to diving catches, these heroes turned matches from the shadows. In cricket, even the 12th man can be a match-winner, and these 10 moments proved just that.
FAQ – Fielders Who Became Unexpected Heroes
Q1: Who is a substitute fielder in cricket?
A substitute fielder is a player who temporarily replaces another fielder on the field, usually due to injury, illness, or tactical reasons. They are not allowed to bowl or bat but can field and even take catches or affect run-outs.
Q2: Can substitute fielders take catches in international matches?
Yes. Substitute fielders are allowed to take catches, effect run-outs, and save crucial runs. Their contributions are recognized in the match records.
Q3: Has any substitute fielder ever changed the course of a match?
Absolutely! Several times, substitute fielders have taken stunning catches or made game-changing run-outs. These moments often turn them into unexpected match-winners, even without being part of the starting XI.