Point in cricket
Point is an inner-ring fielder on the off side, square of the wicket, who stops the cut shot and the ball hit square on the off side.
Point stands level with the batter on the off side, inside the fielding circle. It is the first of the off-side ring positions after gully, and the fielder faces the batter side-on.
A fielder can stand closer for an attacking field, to catch a mistimed cut, or deeper to save runs. Backward point stands slightly behind square, and deep point stands near the boundary.
What does a point do?
- Stops the cut and the square drive.
- Cuts off singles to the off side.
- Catches the mistimed cut that goes in the air.
When should you use a point?
- In the powerplay, to save the cut while the boundary fielders are limited, as in the powerplay field.
- Against a batter who likes to cut.
- When the bowler is bowling short and wide.
What skills does a point need?
Point needs a strong, accurate throw and quick reaction, since the ball is hit hard and square. Good anticipation matters, because the fielder must move before the ball is struck. Point fielders often run in from the side to save the single.
What are common mistakes at point?
- Standing too deep to the cut, so the ball beats the fielder before they have moved.
- Standing flat-footed, which makes it hard to dive either way.
- Not calling for the catch when the ball goes between point and gully.
What rules affect this position?
This position is inside the fielding circle, so it does not count toward the limit on fielders outside the circle in ICC T20 and ODI matches. It does not count toward the two-behind-square limit unless the fielder stands behind the popping crease on the leg side.
Is it the same for a left-hand batter?
This position is on the off side. For a right-hand batter it is on the left of the diagram. For a left-hand batter the off side swaps to the other half of the ground, so the position keeps its name but moves to the opposite side of the pitch.
In the planner, switch the plan to left-hand batter and every field mirrors for you. See field settings for a left-hand batter.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between point and cover?
Point is square of the wicket and stops the cut. Cover is further forward and stops the drive.
How close should point stand?
Closer when attacking and the ball is new, and deeper to save runs against a batter who cuts well.
Sources
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Open Cricket Field MapRelated guides
Exact distances depend on the batter, the bowler and the ground. Positions are standard names, not fixed spots.