Even though Alex Carey was not wearing gloves, he still managed to pull off some incredible feats in the field. In the Champions Trophy opening against England, the Australian wicketkeeper, who was playing as a specialist batter, made headlines with his incredible catches that had both fans and analysts talking.
Alex Carey Dismissed Phil Salt with a Magnificent Catch
It all began in the second over when Phil Salt of England, who had just hit a six, attempted to hit Ben Dwarshuis again. Alex Carey, however, had other ideas.
Leaping like a seasoned AFL great, he sprinted from mid-on and executed a one-handed shocker behind his head. He was in early contention for the tournament’s catch thanks to a grab that looked like it belonged on a highlight reel.
Another Highlight Reel Highlight
Carey was far from finished. He sent Jamie Smith back to the pavilion in the sixth over with another deft catch. Even if it wasn’t as impressive as the first, he still demonstrated his ability to catch.
The 35th over followed. Carey, who was positioned at the backward point, sprinted back and dove full stretch to finish another blinster after Harry Brook stole one from Adam Zampa.
The Full Display of the AFL Background
In those receptions, Carey’s experience playing Australian Rules Football was evident. Alex Carey was a promising Australian Rules football player before he made his name in cricket. Before the team’s AFL debut, he led the GWS Giants in the TAC Cup and captained the team throughout its early years in 2010.
Carey, a born athlete, played as a midfielder and shown remarkable endurance, agility, and leadership—qualities that now characterize his cricket career. He lost out on a position in the team’s first AFL roster in 2012, even though he won the Best and Fairest award.
He returned to cricket as a result of that setback, changed careers, and rose to become one of Australia’s best wicketkeepers. But every time he enters the field, his footballing instincts—quick reactions, aerial talents, and crisp movement—remain evident.
England Advances in spite of Carey’s Attempts
Carey was only selected as a batsman for this game, while Josh Inglis took the gloves. However, he made sure his presence was felt even if he wasn’t standing behind the stumps. Australia needed to slow down England’s innings, and his fielding heroics arrived at just the right times.
With Liam Livingstone joining the team and Ben Duckett hitting an incredible 143, England is at 284/5 after 42 overs. Carey’s catches, however, are taking center stage regardless of the number of runs scored.
