Field settings for defending a low total
When you are defending a low total, set an attacking field with slips and close catchers, because the only way to win is to take wickets before the batting side reaches the target.
A defensive field only slows a chase that has plenty of overs and wickets in hand. With a low target the batting side can afford to take singles, so a field that saves singles loses the game slowly. Attack early, force mistakes and make every ball a chance to take a wicket.
Why does an attacking field suit a low total?
A low target means the batting side needs a few runs an over. They will happily take singles, so saving them does not stop the chase. A wicket changes the chase because a new batter must start from zero and the target looms larger. Every wicket therefore matters more than every run.
Which positions create wicket chances?
- First and second slip and gully, for edges off a new or swinging ball.
- A catching cover and mid-off, for the batter who drives early.
- Midwicket and square leg, for the mistimed pull or flick.
- Fine leg inside the circle, for the glance that takes the edge.
What are the limits on where you put them?
The MCC Laws allow no more than two fielders, other than the keeper, behind the popping crease on the leg side. In ICC T20 and ODI matches no more than five fielders may be on the leg side. There are limits on how many may be outside the circle, but no minimum, so an all-catching field is legal under the ICC conditions above. See Test fielding rules for the Law, and T20 fielding restrictions.
When should you pull the field back?
Only when the batter hits two or three boundaries in a short spell, or the required rate falls enough that the target is no longer threatening. Move one slip to a boundary position first and keep the other catchers. Changing everything at once signals panic to your bowlers.
What should the bowlers do?
Bowl a full length at the stumps, on a line that makes the batter play. Wide balls and short balls give runs for free and put the field out of position. Practise the line before the match, because an attacking field only pays off if the ball goes where the catchers are.
Frequently asked questions
Should you set a defensive field when defending a low total?
Generally not. A defensive field slows runs, and a low target does not need runs slowed. It needs wickets.
Is an all-catching field legal in T20 and ODI?
Yes under the ICC T20 and ODI conditions, where the limits are maximums on fielders outside the circle and on the leg side, with no minimum inside it.
Sources
- MCC Laws of Cricket, Law 28: The Fielder (Lord’s)
- ICC Men’s T20I Match, Clause 28: The Fielder
- ICC Men’s ODI Match, Clause 28: The Fielder
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Fielding restrictions differ between competitions and age groups. Check your own playing conditions.