A heartwarming video recently captured former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes joining local youngsters for an impromptu game of beach cricket on Arthunkal beach in Alappuzha, quickly becoming a viral sensation across social media platforms.
The legendary cricketer, celebrated for his extraordinary acrobatic fielding throughout his career, later had an online conversation with Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas. During their chat, the Minister extended a warm invitation for Rhodes, who is currently enjoying a ten-day wellness and rejuvenation retreat, to further explore the diverse beauty of Kerala.
Rhodes expressed his profound appreciation for the state’s picturesque landscapes and its remarkably welcoming hospitality. Minister Riyas, in turn, shared his fond memories of being an ardent fan of Rhodes’ illustrious cricketing days.
After a tranquil stay on a houseboat in Marari, near Alappuzha, Rhodes embarked on a heritage walk through Fort Kochi. He was particularly struck by the historical town’s architectural and cultural similarities to Cape Town, observing the distinct influences of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods.
Concluding their meeting in Fort Kochi, Kerala Tourism’s joint director Subair Kutty P.I. and deputy director G. Sreekumar presented Mr. Rhodes with a commemorative memento.