One of the best close-in fielders ever (though he did little else of note) is the late Eknath Solkar of India. He used to take some unbelievable catches at short leg, silly mid-on or off. One of his best was the spectacular catch to dismiss Alan Knott in the Oval test of 1971; it was little more than a forward defensive stroke, but somehow Solkar dived forward to grab the ball with both hands inches off the ground. It might be fair to say that Solkar was one of the few players in the 70s who were instrumental in bringing about increased awaress of the importance of good fielding for cricket in India.

It has been said that Len Hutton's opening partner Cyril Washbrook was a great fielder in the 1930s and immediatly after the war, and believed in vigorous active training for the purpose.

The South African Colin Bland is legendary for his fileding and throwing ability. He once ran out Ken Barrington by throwing the ball between the running Englishman's legs - the only way he could hit the stumps.

The great Australian opening bolwer Alan Davidson was nicknamed "The Claw" for the way he hung onto close catches.

Way back, Learie Constantine of the West Indies was known was his great fielding, catching and throwing.