Jonty Rhodes calls himself 'half Indian, half South African', reveals why he loves India

South African cricket legend Jonty Rhodes has once again expressed his love for India, describing himself as "half Indian, half South African" and revealing why he and his family continue to return to the country.

Rhodes, widely recognised for his exceptional fielding during his playing career, has maintained a strong association with India over the years. He has also been involved with several franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

His connection with the country extends beyond cricket. Two of his children were born in Mumbai during the IPL seasons between 2015 and 2017. His daughter, in particular, was named India Jeanne Jonty Rhodes.

The former South African cricketer was recently in Chennai for the inauguration of a Solar Experience Centre launched by Evolve Energy Group. Speaking to reporters at the event, Rhodes spoke about his family's time in India and their 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 said.

Jonty Rhodes on his IPL legacy and fielding

Apart from sharing his personal connection with India, Rhodes also spoke about his association with Evolve Energy and the importance of renewable energy.

The former Proteas star, who is the brand ambassador of the company, said he was keen to contribute to an initiative that could make a difference. He also spoke about his long-standing legacy in cricket, particularly his impact on fielding.

Rhodes recalled how his fielding became widely discussed following his famous run-out of Pakistan's Inzamam-ul-Haq during the 1992 World Cup. However, he said his focus now is on helping young players improve their fielding skills.

"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," he said.

"And I think that's the important thing. You know, as a fielder, everyone said, oh, your 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," he added.

Jonty Rhodes highlights importance of renewable energy

Rhodes also highlighted the need to take practical steps towards renewable energy, emphasising the importance of building a sustainable future for the next generation.

He said that while renewable energy is frequently discussed, more action is needed to turn those conversations into meaningful progress. "So, it's not about me and what I used to do. And with the legacy of renewable energy, it's about what the future is for our children. And that is something we can all make a decision and actually take action on," Rhodes said.

He also admitted that he had limited knowledge of solar energy and explained why the new centre could help people better understand the technology. "Because, as I said, a lot of people talk about renewable energy, but not much action is taken. And it's great to see what Evolve is doing, especially with this newly opened (Solar Experience Centre), because I'm the same. I have one little solar panel in my house for hot water because I'm too scared. I don't understand it enough," he said.

Rhodes added that having experts explain the process could encourage more people to consider adopting solar energy. "But I've never been down to an experience centre where you got experts explaining the whole process and just saying, 'don't worry, we will look after you'. So, I think from that perspective, it's so important to have the whole system backwardly integrated. And it excites me to be a part of that," he added.