WATCH: ‘Jadeja ahead of all, but Jonty was a game-changer’ – Ashish Nehra picks his best fielders

Halfway through the IPL 2025 season, there have been many exciting moments, such as hitters outscoring bowlers, bowlers forming tight lines in response, and fielders dazzling the pitch with spectacular catches and accurate run-outs.

Before the much awaited match between the Gujarat Titans (GT) and Delhi Capitals (DC), Ashish Nehra, the head coach of the GT,

was asked to select the best fielder in cricket. Ravindra Jadeja was immediately named the senior player’s first choice.

However, the left-arm pacer recognised South African veteran Jonty Rhodes as the best fielder inside the circle when asked to name the all-time greats. He also gave AB de Villiers and Andrew Symonds credit for their outstanding fielding skills. Jadeja is superior to them all, the 45-year-old reiterated, not because he is older but rather because of his remarkable level of fitness and consistency on the pitch.

Some of the huge fielders I’ve seen are good in the outfield, while others, like Jonty Rhodes, are better inside the circle. The name of AB de Villiers comes to mind when discussing all-around fielding, but so do Andrew Symonds and Jadeja. I would, however, rank Jadeja higher than them. His age has nothing to do with it. He remains the same as he was when he arrived in 2008–09. He is fit; I’m not sure what he consumes. In response to a question concerning the best fielder, Ashish Nehra stated, “If he is eating something different, he should tell us.”

Watch the video below: