Ricky Ponting vs. Kumar Sangakkara (ODIs)

[a massive zebra]

I'd say Ponting's flat out the best fielder ever.

I'm never too keen when people are labelled the "best ever" by someone who only considers players they have seen. Just because you haven't seen anyone better doesn't mean there hasn't been any better.

I think the thing that truly separates him from other fielders was how often he hit the stumps. It was freaky how many direct hit runout he affected.

Colin Bland was arguably even better at hitting the stumps than Ponting, but you didn't consider him as you haven't seen him.

Ponting was brilliant everywhere. So was Mark Waugh, come to that.

Again you are only considering players you have seen. So were Gilbert Jessop, Learie Constantine, Derek Randall and Roger Harper.

Purely as a run saver, Jonty.

Jonty wasn't purely a run saver. He took plenty of phenomenal catches as well. But yes, Ponting was certainly in a different league with regard to hitting the stumps.

Props also to Bobby Simpson, Wally Hammond and Mark Waugh in the slips.

 

[a massive zebra]

How many teams in history have had a spinner near the caliber of Murali? Only one, Warne.

Ok, O'Reilly too, but that's literally it.

Perhaps also England in the second half of the 1950s with Jim Laker. But the three you mentioned certainly maintained that level for a lot longer.

 

[a massive zebra]

As one day batsmen, in terms of calibre and impact, I can't split them. Ponting was considerably better in the middle of his career but Sangakarra ended his career far more strongly. So I chose Sangakarra for purely stylistic reasons. Much more aesthetically pleasing to watch, IMO.

 

[GotSpin]

Guys can we get the thread Back on track and discuss Warne v Murali