Second Slip in cricket
Second slip is a close fielder on the off side, standing beside and slightly wider than first slip, who catches the edge that carries wider than first slip can reach.
Second slip stands to the off side of first slip, a little deeper, so the two fielders cover different angles of the same edge. First slip takes the thin edge and second slip takes the thicker one.
A third slip, if used, stands wider again. Together with gully they form the slip cordon.
What does a second slip do?
- Catches the edge that carries wide of first slip.
- Leaves first slip free to cover the keeper’s side.
- Adds to the cordon so a bowler gets more than one chance per edge.
When should you use a second slip?
- When the ball is new and the bowler is hitting a consistent line, as in the pace bowling field.
- In Test cricket and longer matches where catchers matter most.
- Not in the slog overs, where fielders are better used on the boundary.
What skills does a second slip need?
Second slip needs soft hands and a low stance. The fielder should call for a catch that is between the two slips, and the two should agree beforehand who takes it. Practise by hitting catches from a bat with the keeper standing up.
What are common mistakes at second slip?
- Standing in line with first slip, so both go for the same catch.
- Standing too deep for a slower bowler, so catches drop short.
- Not calling for a catch that goes between the two slips.
What rules affect this position?
Under Law 28.1 and the ICC conditions, no fielder other than the wicket keeper may wear gloves or external leg guards, and any hand or finger protection needs the umpire’s consent. Helmets are allowed. A fielder behind the popping crease on the leg side counts toward the limit of two, other than the keeper, unless the whole body is in front of that line.
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
How far apart do first and second slip stand?
Far enough that each can reach a different edge. There is no fixed distance, and it depends on the bowler’s pace.
Who takes a catch between first and second slip?
The slips should agree before the match. A common rule is that the fielder who can take it more comfortably calls for it.
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.