Jonty Rhodes, the South African fielding legend known as the 'Flying Man of the Field' in the cricket world, named his daughter "India". He adored the diversity of India so much that he chose this name for his daughter. Driven by his distaste for racial discrimination, he left the national hockey team and pursued cricket instead.
In an exclusive interview with Gulf Madhyamam in Dubai, Jonty shared some of his interesting experiences.
Rhodes explained that he usually travels to India through Dubai, which he considers a perfect place to spend quality time. Within the few IPL matches, cricket has significantly established itself in Dubai’s sports sector. Dubai, with its large Indian expatriate population, offers an excellent environment for exploring cricket, making his visits here enjoyable.
Rhodes expressed joy seeing Gulf Madhyamam’s strong presence in GCC countries. He added that seeing a print media outlet thriving in a world dominated by digital media is impressive.
As he transitioned from being a star player to a motivational speaker, Jonty viewed his audience in shows with the same enthusiasm as he did fans cheering in the stadium. Each question and reaction from his audience satisfies him, he said. Although some sessions may feel lengthy, he misses his audience at the end. Jonty appreciates the warmth from his fans, even after being away from the game for over 20 years.
As one of the early top fielders, Jonty expressed pride in his accomplishments, emphasizing that he still values the recognition he receives for leading in that area.
Strong Bond with India
Jonty first visited India in 1993 as a cricketer, experiencing the country's growth and transformation over the years. Growing up in racially discriminatory South Africa, he found a special connection with India, where diversity thrives. He enjoyed travelling around India, even on motorbikes and Kerala houseboats, exploring different regions and immersing himself in the country’s rich culture. Jonty valued journeys that allowed him to connect with India's soil and spirit rather than merely travelling in team buses and planes.
When asked about his favourite places, he said, "Every city I stay in is dear to me. I never wish to settle permanently in one place. Focus entirely on wherever the journey takes you”.
Naming His Daughter "India"
There were several reasons behind naming his daughter after a country. She was born in Mumbai and his wife is a yoga teacher who follows a spiritual path. As a student of Vedanta philosophy, his wife found a true spiritual journey in India, Jonty explained. India, to him, is a country of wonders, with something new happening every day. There's always suspense on Indian roads, where anything can happen at any moment. The same unpredictability applies to his daughter’s life – he leaves her journey open, trusting the future to unfold naturally.
Favorite Player and Team
His favorite team and player? CSK and Suresh Raina, led by the ever-cool captain MS Dhoni. Raina, Mr. IPL, always amazed Jonty with his skill and agility. He was reminiscing about Raina’s dives and superb fielding. Raina's style reminded Jonty of his own prime.
From Hockey to Cricket
Jonty clarified that he didn’t choose cricket; cricket chose him. South African sports in 1992 were far from democratic, with racial discrimination ingrained in the organizations. Cricket was the only sport with equal treatment, so while he waited for democratization in hockey, cricket took hold in his life. One Day Internationals (ODIs) were the shortest format when he played, as T20 didn't exist. However, he loves the packed stadiums and intensity of the shorter-over formats, where every ball is crucial.
Jonty said he is probably the only cricketer who enjoyed fielding all day long.
“T20, with its focus on each ball's importance, brings even greater pressure and excitement", he added.
In T20, every ball can change the game and in 50-over matches, a few overs can shift momentum. Partnerships in bowling matter incredibly. Three solid deliveries can create pressure in T20. The intensity and athleticism required are remarkable. Watching the high level of performance today amazes Jonty.
Today’s fielding isn't undervalued, he continued, noting significant improvements. Fielding has become the third key factor in IPL selections. If he were on a selection committee, he'd compare players' fielding skills first when picking two batters of equal ability.
"One might bat or bowl well, but they must contribute on the field. That's why fielding is a primary factor in team selection”.
Rhodes’ favourite contemporary fielder? Ravindra Jadeja, known as "Mr. Jaddu" in T20, recently retired from the format.
"Jaddu is phenomenal in every format. His direct throws to the stumps and speed in the field make him an all-round fielder”.
Shortcuts to Success Don’t Exist
“Whatever you do, if you enjoy it, it won’t feel like hard work. Find ways to savour those moments. Both cricket and life are serious businesses, but you must enjoy them fully”, This is Jonty’s advice to new-generation cricketers and young fans.