Probably the best ground fielder inside circle is Dilshan, while Raina is outstanding in outfield. Wasim Baris is slighlty ahead of Kirmany as he was outsatnding against all types of bowling, but Kiri was probably best ever against spin. I think, Solker was the best shot in catchers while Mahela is probably the best slip catcher.
Now, coming to the best all-round fielders, I have very little doubt about the first 2 -
Azhar was probably as good an all-round fielder as Mark Waugh. He was brilliant stopper in inner circle - Azhar hardly dived, because of his anticipation & perfect pick-ups; at one motion he was ready to throw. On the line, he took some of the best running catches, had a strong arm & his acceleration during chasing was outstanding. Azhar was among the all time best slip catchers against spin, while he was safe against pacers. Besides, he loved to field in risky positions & as Captain, often he used to stand at silly point against off-spinners. I don't think, sub-continent ever had or 'll have such an outstanding all-round fielder.
What I wrote for Azhar, is probably applicable for Kapil as well, but I don't think he was that good in slip. Apart from these 2, I heard that during their younger days Javed & Tiger Pataudi were among the best of their time (can't tell much as the standard of 60s & 70s were different, but they were indeed great slip catchers). From SRL, I think the man close o Ahzar in all-round capacity was Mahana.
Those who are thinking of UV, Kaif, Nazir, bla, bla, bla & bla ...... don't have any idea of what it's like to take edges of Anil Kumble on a crumbling wicket from 5 yards,often one handed & blind folded ill the ball has past Mongia/More's gloves. I believe Ct. Azhar, B Kumble is a world record for non WK-bowler pair (Or Taylor/Mark-Shane?) - 29 times (?) it happened, for any of those I listed with bla, bla & bla.... at least 100 runs (4 X 25) 'll be the damage to start with...............
