Speed and being able to throw-in well are, more or less, gifts which belong to the few; but dash and certainty are the fruits of long practice, which most players can acquire if they give their mind to them. The most of those I have named are always on the look-out and seem to know when the ball is coming their way, and pick it up and return in one action.
A lazy or indifferent fieldsman has a demoralising effect on the rest of the eleven, and is an eyesore to every lover of the game: a very bad one will, probably, lose more runs than he makes, and is better out of the team altogether. A good man may not always bat or bowl up to his best form; but, if he tries, can always save runs in the field. The young player should keep that before him, if he desires to play in good matches; for every Committee and Captain know and consider it in the selection of a team.
Before touching upon the different positions in the field, I shall mention a few points which every beginner should carry in his mind:
I. Always be on the look-out; and use two hands, if possible.
II. Keep your legs together when the ball is hit straight to you.
III. Do not dash in too quickly.
IV. Pick up the ball and throw it in with one action,
V. Throw at the wicket-keeper's head, or so that the ball will bound to the bails.
VI. Always back up when the ball is thrown in; but do not go too near to the wicket-keeper or bowler, or you will miss it: about eight yards is the best distance to be from each other in backing up.
VII. Always try for a catch. Impossible things are not expected of you; but you never know what you can reach until you try.
