South African fielding legend Colin Bland is often thought of as the best fielder who ever played.

He is certainly a benchmark for others to aspire to in their own fielding performance.

Duncan Fletcher thinks his skills can be emulated by modern players:

"I've got ten boys at Western Province who are better than he ever was." Fletcher, while coaching Glamorgan, once told Steve James.

The reason why: Modern players train harder and practice more effectively.

Can the same principles apply to all cricketers?

While the natural cricket talent of Bland is beyond most people, you can train and practice to improve your fielding to a high standard. How do you do it?

1. Improve your cricket fitness in the right way
2. Work on your concentration and alertness
3. Master the basics and learn advanced fielding techniques
4. Practice, practice, practice

Subscribe to Harrowdrive for information, tips and drills for all these aspects which we will look at in detail.