Cricket / ‘I’m Half Indian, Half South African’: Jonty Rhodes Reaffirms His Love for India

Chennai, Oct 20: Former South African cricket great Jonty Rhodes has once again expressed his deep affection for India, describing himself as “half Indian, half South African” while highlighting his family's long-standing connection with the country during a visit to Chennai.

The former Proteas star, who set near-unmatched benchmarks in fielding, has a well-known love for India. He has been visiting the nation for decades now and has been associated with several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Rhodes' two children were also born in India, and his daughter is named India Jeanne Jonty Rhodes. He has also developed a strong bond with Indian traditions and spirituality over the years.

The South African was in Chennai for the inauguration of the Solar Experience Centre launched by Evolve Energy Group, where he once again spoke about his affection for the country.

"I'm half Indian, half South African. I spend a lot of time in Chennai, down the coast of Mahabalipuram. And half a year, we actually spend in Goa as a family. So two children were born in Mumbai during IPL 2015-2017. And my wife and I love coming back to India," Rhodes told reporters.

Rhodes attended the inauguration of the new Solar Experience Centre launched by Evolve Energy Group, a subsidiary of Evolve Green Energies, for which he serves as brand ambassador.

He also underlined the importance of renewable energy and spoke about his desire to inspire the next generation of cricketers.

"I've obviously been involved with different products and brands in India, but never with renewable energy. And it's great here to be associated and a brand ambassador and a partner with Evolve Energy, because we want to make a difference."

Reflecting on his cricketing legacy, he added: "As a fielder, everyone said my legacy was running out Inzamam-ul-Haq in 1992. But my legacy is trying to make the kids in the IPL better fielders than I ever was."
Also Read: Pragyan Ojha Named BCCI Chief Selector, Ramesh Powar Joins Panel

Rhodes stressed that renewable energy is equally important for securing the future of the next generation.

"It's not about me and what I used to do. With the legacy of renewable energy, it's about what the future is for our children. That is something we can all make a decision on and take action towards."

He further praised initiatives that help consumers better understand solar energy solutions.

"A lot of people talk about renewable energy, but not much action is taken. It's great to see what Evolve is doing, especially with this newly opened Solar Experience Centre. I've never been to a facility where experts explain the entire process and assure customers that everything will be taken care of. That backward integration is important, and it excites me to be a part of it," he said.
(IANS)