Fourth Slip in Cricket Explained
When a captain uses four slips, what fourth slip catches, and why it is one of the rarest field settings in cricket.
Where Is Fourth Slip?
Fourth slip stands outside third slip in the extended slip cordon, at roughly 60°–70° behind square on the off side, approximately 4–5 metres wide of second slip. The position is set wide enough that it almost merges with a backward point or wide gully, and it represents the extreme edge of a catching cordon. In most professional matches, three slips is the maximum; four slips is a deliberate attacking statement.
When Is Fourth Slip Used?
- First-day morning play in Test cricket when the pitch is lively and the new ball is swinging and seaming
- Against batters who play a lot through the off side and generate wide edges consistently
- On green or damp pitches where deviation is unpredictable and wide
- Early in a Test innings when conditions strongly favour the bowling side
Fourth Slip in History
Four slips was a more common sight in Test cricket before the 1990s, when pitches had more life and pace bowlers regularly moved the ball sharply. Australia under Steve Waugh and India under MS Dhoni occasionally deployed four slips in helpful conditions. In modern cricket, the pressure to save runs in white-ball formats has reduced fielding aggressiveness, making four slips a rarity even in Tests.
Fourth Slip vs Gully
At its widest, fourth slip occupies similar ground to a narrow gully. The distinction is intent — fourth slip is set as a catching position for an edge in the slip cordon, while gully is set for a thicker edge or cut. If the cordon is set very wide, the distinction between fourth slip and narrow gully may exist only on the scoreboard.
Frequently asked questions
Has a catch ever been taken at fifth slip?
Rarely, but yes. Five slips have been set in exceptional conditions — usually the opening over of a Test on a rain-affected morning pitch. Catches have been taken, though it is an extremely unusual scoreline entry.
Does fourth slip require a specialist?
Any good slipper can field at fourth slip — the technique is the same as at first or second. The wider angle means catches fly flatter rather than looping, so quick hands are essential.
Is fourth slip ever used in ODI cricket?
Very rarely. In the first few overs of an ODI with the new ball swinging, a captain might set three slips and occasionally four. After 10 overs, boundary saving replaces catching positions.