Silly Point in cricket
Silly point is a very close fielder on the off side, level with or just in front of the batter, who catches the ball off the bat’s face or the pad when it pops up.
Silly point stands only a few metres from the bat on the off side, roughly square or slightly in front of square. It is one of the closest positions on the field, which is why it is called silly: the fielder is in the line of a hard shot.
The position on the diagram is approximate, since silly point is not one of the planner’s standard positions and the fielder moves according to the batter.
What does a silly point do?
- Catches the ball that pops up off the pad or the bat’s edge when the batter plays defensively.
- Pressures a batter who is struggling against turn.
- Takes quick catches from the half-chance that most other fielders could not reach.
When should you use a silly point?
- Against spin bowling on a pitch that turns and bounces, as in the spin bowling field.
- To a batter who plays with an angled bat or a defensive prod.
- In Test cricket and longer matches where catchers matter more than boundary riders.
What skills does a silly point need?
The fielder needs courage, quick reactions and a helmet. The role is to stay low and catch the chance when it arrives, without flinching. Fielders who play here usually train for it, because it is a specialist skill.
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, and when not in use they may not be left on the ground except behind the keeper (clause 28.3.1). A fielder here counts as behind the popping crease on the on side unless the whole of their body, grounded or in the air, is in front of that line, so check that line when you count your leg-side fielders.
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
Why is it called silly point?
Because the fielder stands so close to the bat that it seems silly to stand there, since a hard shot could hit them.
Do fielders at silly point wear a helmet?
Usually yes. Helmets are allowed under the Laws, although gloves and external leg guards are not for fielders other than the keeper.
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
Exact distances depend on the batter, the bowler and the ground. Positions are standard names, not fixed spots.