Slip in cricket
A slip is a close fielder who stands behind the batter on the off side, next to the wicket keeper, to catch the ball when it takes the edge of the bat.
First slip stands a short distance to the off side of the keeper and a little deeper, so the keeper and the slip can each reach the ball without colliding. Extra slips line up beside the first, each slightly wider and deeper, and the group is called the slip cordon.
The distance depends on the bowler. Against a fast bowler the slips stand deeper because the ball carries further off the edge, and against a spinner they stand closer.
What does a slip do?
- Catches edges that fly past the keeper, especially against pace and swing bowling.
- Catches the turning ball that takes the edge against a spinner.
- Adds pressure by showing the batter that an edge will be punished.
When should you use a slip?
- While the ball is new and swinging or seaming, as in the pace bowling field.
- When the bowler is bowling a consistent line just outside off stump.
- Against a batter who is new to the crease, as in the new batter field.
- Not in the slog overs, where a fielder is better used on the boundary.
What skills does a slip need?
Slip fielding is a catching skill. The fielder stays low, watches the ball off the bat, and catches with soft hands, giving with the ball. Reaction speed and calm matter more than throwing. Many teams practise slip catching in every session with a cradle or a bat and ball.
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
How far from the keeper does a slip stand?
Far enough that the keeper and slip can each take a catch without colliding, and deeper against faster bowlers. There is no fixed distance.
How many slips should a team use?
Use as many as the bowler’s line and pace justify. Add them while the bowler is bowling at the edge, and remove them when edges stop carrying.
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.