Most Catches By Indians In ODIs

Soumyajit Dutta

Virat Kohli [Source: AP Photos]Virat Kohli [Source: AP Photos]

Fielding has evolved into a game-changing aspect of modern ODI cricket, and India has produced some of the sport’s most agile and reliable catchers over the years. While batting and bowling often steal the spotlight, a stunning catch can shift momentum, break partnerships, and inspire teams. 

Indian cricketers, known for their athleticism and sharp reflexes, have set high standards in the field, with several legends etching their names into the record books for their consistency under pressure.

From iconic slip fielders to dynamic cover-point specialists, this listicle celebrates India’s greatest catchers in ODIs. So, let’s dive into the top five Indian cricketers with the most catches in ODI history.

5. Suresh Raina (102 Catches)

A pioneer of India’s fielding revolution, Suresh Raina’s agility at point or backward square-leg made him a fan favourite. With 102 catches in 226 matches at 0.457 per inning, his quick throws and acrobatic dives epitomized the energy of the 2011 World Cup-winning squad.

As a cricketer too, Raina had a stellar career. Suresh Raina played 18 Tests, scoring 768 runs at an average of 26.48, including one century. In ODIs, he amassed 5,615 runs in 226 matches at an average of 35.31. In T20Is, he scored 1,605 runs in 78 matches at an average of 29.18, striking at 134.87, with one century. 

4. Rahul Dravid (124 Catches)

"The Wall", Rahul Dravid, was equally immovable in the slips and behind the stumps too. Dravid’s 124 catches in 340 matches at 0.467 per inning reflect his razor-sharp concentration. Despite occasionally keeping wickets, his primary role as a fielder saw him pull off jaw-dropping grabs, including 4 maximum catches in a match.

Rahul Dravid played 164 Tests, scoring 13,288 runs at a strike rate of 42.51. In ODIs, he featured in 344 matches, amassing 10,889 runs with a strike rate of 71.23. He played a lone T20I, scoring 31 runs at a strike rate of 147.61. Across T20s, he accumulated 2,586 runs in 109 matches with a strike rate of 113.87.

3. Sachin Tendulkar (140 Catches)

For the unaware, the "Little Master" wasn’t just a batting legend, he pouched 140 catches, often patrolling the boundary or slips. Though his catches-per-innings ratio (0.307) is lower, his longevity and all-around contributions across 463 ODIs cement his place among India’s fielding greats.

The 'God of Cricket', Sachin Tendulkar played 200 Test matches, scoring 15,921 runs. In ODIs, he featured in 463 matches, amassing 18,426 runs with a strike rate of 86.23. He played one T20I, scoring 10 runs at a strike rate of 83.33. Across T20s, he accumulated 2,797 runs in 96 matches with a strike rate of 121.08.

2. Mohammad Azharuddin (156 catches)

Tied with Kohli at 156 catches, Azharuddin dominated the 90s with his silky slip fielding. His safe hands and quick reflexes helped him snare 4 catches in a match four times, a record for an Indian. Leading by example, Azhar’s 0.469 catches per inning remain iconic in India’s fielding legacy.

Mohammad Azharuddin had an illustrious cricket career, playing 99 Test matches and scoring 6,215 runs at an average of 45.03, with 22 centuries. In ODIs, he represented India in 334 matches, amassing 9,378 runs at an average of 36.92 and a strike rate of 74.02, including 7 centuries and 58 fifties.

1. Virat Kohli (156 catches)

The modern-day maestro isn’t just a batting titan, Kohli’s electric presence and on-field antics make him India’s joint-highest catcher with 156 catches in ODIs. With a staggering 0.528 catches per inning, his anticipation and athleticism at cover, mid-wicket and slips set him apart. Still active, Kohli continues to add to his tally, blending fitness and focus like no other.

Currently playing in the Champions Trophy 2025, King Kohli boasts a stellar career. For the unaware, Kohli has played 297 ODIs, scoring 13,963 runs at an average of 57.93 and a strike rate of 93.52, including 50 centuries and 73 fifties.