Deep Fielding Positions in Cricket Explained
Deep fielding positions are placed near the boundary to stop boundaries and catch lofted shots — critical in T20 cricket where six of the eleven fielders operate in the deep after the Powerplay.
What Are Deep Fielding Positions?
Deep fielding positions are placed near or on the boundary, typically 20 to 30 metres further from the wicket than the standard close-in or mid-field positions. After the Powerplay in T20 cricket, captains can place up to five fielders in the deep — and most do, positioning boundary catchers on the main hitting arcs to save fours and take the high catches that T20 batters generate when attempting sixes. In Test cricket, the deep is used sparingly, typically only when batters are expected to attack.
- Deep fine leg — behind square on the leg side near the fine-leg boundary
- Deep square leg — squarer on the leg side, covering the pull shot
- Long on — straight behind the bowler on the on side
- Long off — straight behind the bowler on the off side
- Deep mid-wicket — mid-way between long on and deep square leg
- Deep extra cover — deep on the off side, covering lofted drives
- Deep backward point — deep on the off side, squarer than extra cover
- Third man — behind square on the off side near the fine-leg mirror position
Catching in the Deep
Fielders in the deep must judge the trajectory of a lofted ball while tracking backward and sideways at speed. The skill of taking a catch running back — particularly near the boundary where the fielder must also manage their footwork to avoid stepping over the rope — is one of the most spectacular in the game. Modern T20 cricket has raised the standard of deep fielding dramatically: athletes of exceptional speed and coordination now occupy positions that were considered secondary roles in earlier eras.
Frequently asked questions
What are the deep fielding positions in cricket?
Deep fielding positions are placed near the boundary — deep fine leg, deep square leg, long on, long off, deep mid-wicket, deep extra cover, deep backward point, and third man.
When are deep fielders used in T20 cricket?
After the Powerplay (overs 1 to 6), captains can place up to five fielders outside the 30-yard circle. Most position four or five fielders in the deep to protect boundaries.
What is the most important deep fielding position in T20 cricket?
Long on, long off, and deep mid-wicket are the most contested positions — they cover the straight and mid-wicket hitting arcs where the majority of T20 sixes land.