The Spin | ‘I wanted the ball to be hit at me’: life in cricket’s most dangerous fielding position

Former England cricketer James Taylor reflects on his experience fielding at short leg, widely considered cricket's most dangerous fielding position, where fielders stand just metres from the batsman. Taylor describes the unique psychological mindset required, including actively wanting the ball to be hit in his direction despite the obvious physical risks. The piece explores the intense, high-stakes nature of the position through Taylor's personal recollections of both the fear and the exhilaration involved.