In cricket, what is "third man"?
VerifiedAnswer: A fielding position on the off-side, typically deep behind the batsman.
Explanation:
Third man is one of the most recognizable fielding positions in cricket, positioned on the off-side boundary behind the batsman. This position gets its name because it's typically the third fielder placed in the slip cordon area, though much deeper than the traditional slip positions.
The third man fielder is usually stationed near the boundary rope, approximately 45 degrees behind the batsman on the off-side. This positioning serves several important purposes in the team's fielding strategy. The fielder acts as a safety net for edges that fly past the slip fielders, particularly those that are hit hard or at awkward angles.
Captains typically employ a third man in various situations:
• When fast bowlers are operating and there's a likelihood of thick edges • In limited-overs cricket to prevent boundaries from late cuts and deflections • When the pitch offers bounce and batsmen might get awkward edges • As a defensive measure against aggressive batsmen who play risky shots
The third man position requires a fielder with good anticipation skills and safe hands, as catches in this area often come at high speed. The fielder must also be quick across the ground to cut off boundaries and return the ball swiftly to prevent extra runs.
Interestingly, the third man position has evolved over the years of cricket. In Test matches, teams might position the fielder finer (closer to the slip region) or squarer (toward point) depending on the batsman's tendencies and the bowler's line. In T20 cricket, the position becomes even more crucial as batsmen frequently attempt to guide the ball to this area for boundaries.
Understanding fielding positions like third man helps cricket enthusiasts better appreciate the strategic aspects of the game, as each position serves a specific purpose in the captain's overall fielding plan.
