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How do cricket fielders try to prevent runs?

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Jonny Bairstow of England, wearing a light blue uniform and helmet, batting during the 2019 Cricket World Cup semi-final against Australia, with two Australian fielders behind the stumps. — cricket Jonny Bairstow of England batting during a semifinal match against Australia at the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

In cricket, fielders prevent runs primarily by blocking the path of the ball after it has been struck by the batsman. By intercepting or trapping grounders, they stop the ball from reaching the boundary or traveling far enough to allow the batsmen to complete a run.1

The captain of the fielding side strategically places the nine available fielders (excluding the bowler and wicketkeeper) to cover areas where the batsman is likely to hit the ball. These positions are adjusted based on the batsman's technique, the state of the game, and whether the batsman is right- or left-handed.1

While the primary goal of the fielding side is to dismiss the batsmen, preventing runs is a critical secondary objective. The wicketkeeper also plays a vital role by positioning themselves behind the striker's wicket to stop any balls that pass the batsman, thereby preventing potential runs from "byes" or missed shots.12