Mid-On in Cricket — Fielding Position, Role & Tactical Use
Mid-on is a fielding position on the on (leg) side, stationed roughly in line with the bowler but to the leg side. Learn where mid-on stands, what it covers, and how captains deploy it.
Mid-on is a fielding position on the on side (leg side) of the cricket field, stationed roughly symmetric to mid-off but on the opposite side of the pitch. It is typically 25–35 metres from the batter and covers the zone to which on drives, straight drives angled toward the leg side, and mistimed pulls are directed.
Where is mid-on?
Looking from behind the stumps at the bowler's end, mid-on stands to the left of the bowler (the leg side). It is between mid-wicket (squarer on the leg side) and the straight-on zone. A mid-on placed straighter is called 'straight mid-on'; one placed squarer drifts toward mid-wicket.
Role of mid-on
- Cuts off on drives and straight drives angled leg side.
- Backs up the striker's end wickets for return throws from outfielders.
- Takes catches off mishit on drives or lofted shots that don't reach the boundary.
- In close-catching fields (new ball, seaming conditions), mid-on may be brought in near the bat.
Frequently asked questions
Where is mid-on in cricket?
Mid-on is on the on (leg) side, roughly in line with the bowler — about 25–35 metres from the batter, between mid-wicket and the straight-on zone. It covers on drives and lofted shots on the leg side.
What is the difference between mid-on and mid-wicket?
Mid-on is positioned straighter — closer to the line of the pitch. Mid-wicket is squarer, at roughly 90 degrees to the pitch on the leg side. A ball hit harder and squarer goes to mid-wicket; a ball driven more directly down the ground goes to mid-on.