CHAPTER III.
FIELDING.
AMERICAN Cricket owes a debt of gratitude to base ball. The undaunted pluck that stops and holds the fierce grounder; the strong arm which returns it to the baseman; the steady judgement that guides the outfielder to the fly; all deserve the highest praise. Cricket welcomes the base ball fielder to the cricket ground, gives him the post of severest duty, depends upon his keen eyesight, splendid throwing, quick action and steady nerve. She soon calls him her own; for these qualities are just what she is always wanting. Let base ball players then not hesitate, for all their training is in the line of perfect fielding on the cricket ground.
The most important fielder is thought by many cricketers to be the bowler, nor do we wish to disparage the judgement of anyone prejudiced in favor of that opinion. But our belief, reached after deliberate thought, is that the wicket keeper who performs his arduous duties successfully, does greater service for his side than even the best bowler. Like the catcher in base ball, his position is one of danger, leg guards and gloves must be added to his outfit to prevent accidents. Even with these, only a man with a cool head, a correct eye, and a safe pair of hands, should attempt wicket keeping.
