Reaction times measured in nanoseconds. Covering a small acre of territory – in the air and on the ground.
New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips is making fielding in the gully – arguably cricket’s toughest position – look easy.
For the second time in nine months, Phillips has jagged a screamer at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval, flying at full length to reel in catches.
Phillips’ latest split-second reaction grab on Friday sent England’s Ollie Pope on his way for 77 as the tourists pursued New Zealand’s first-innings total of 348.
The 27-year-old all-rounder has been regarded as one of the best fielders for some time, not least because of his efforts the last time New Zealand turned out in Christchurch.
Australian star Marnus Labuschagne fell in remarkably similar fashion for 90 against the Kiwis in March – caught at full length by a diving Phillips, with veteran seamer Tim Southee the bowler on both occasions.
Compare the pair: Glenn Phillips’ diving caches to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne (left) and Ollie Pope (right).Credit: twitter
Phillips’ prowess in the field carries extra weight given he’s patrolling the gully region, where edges typically fly faster than elsewhere in the slips cordon. Fielders here also contend with full-blooded shots off the face of the bat.
Some of the best fielders in recent times have cut their teeth at gully, with Cameron Green becoming one of Australia’s most reliable in the field.