Field settings for a new batter
When a new batter comes in, attack immediately with catchers around the bat, because the first few balls are when a batter is least settled and most likely to make a mistake.
A new batter has not yet judged the pace or bounce of the pitch, and the fielding side has a short window to take advantage. The field below brings in slips and a gully and keeps the inner ring tight, with nobody outside the circle. If the batter survives, you can spread the field again.
Why attack a new batter?
The batter has no feel for the pitch and the bowler’s line. Batters are most likely to be out in the first few balls. A tight field raises the cost of each defensive shot and forces the batter to commit early, which is when edges and mistimed drives occur.
Which close catchers work for a new batter?
- First and second slip, and gully, for the edge.
- Extra cover and mid-off, for the batter who drives early.
- Midwicket and mid-on, for the batter who plays across the line.
- Fine leg inside the ring, for the glance off the pads.
Is the field legal in limited-overs matches?
Yes. The limits are maximums outside the circle and on the leg side, and this field has nobody outside the circle and only one fielder behind the popping crease on the leg side. The MCC Law allows no more than two behind the popping crease on the leg side. See T20 fielding restrictions.
What should the bowler bowl?
A full length on or just outside off stump, which asks the batter to play and gives the slips a chance. Avoid short balls and wide balls early, because they let the batter off the hook and the field is not set for them. If the bowler swings the ball, the full ball is even more effective.
When do you relax the field?
After five or six balls if the batter looks comfortable, or after a boundary. Move one slip back to the ring first, then another fielder to the boundary if the batter keeps scoring. Do it between balls, and tell the bowler, so everyone knows the plan has changed.
Frequently asked questions
How long should you keep the attacking field for a new batter?
Usually for the first few balls. If the batter settles, move to a more balanced field.
Does a new batter field work in T20?
Yes. In the powerplay you can have two outside the circle, and this field has none outside, so it is legal.
Sources
Put your players on the field, save a plan for each situation, and send it to the team as a link. No sign-up.
Open Cricket Field MapRelated guides
Fielding restrictions differ between competitions and age groups. Check your own playing conditions.