Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes with Kerala Tourism joint director Subair Kutty P.I. and deputy director G. Sreekumar in Fort Kochi.
A video of former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes playing beach cricket with a group of youths on Arthunkal beach in Alappuzha went viral on social media the other day.
The iconic cricketer, who in his heyday was noted for his acrobatic fielding, later had an online chat with Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, who suggested that the cricketer, who is on a 10-day wellness and rejuvenation break, visit other parts of Kerala as well.
The cricketer told the minister that he was greatly impressed by the scenic charm and warm hospitality of the State. Mr. Riyas recalled being a fan of Mr. Rhodes’ professional cricketing days.
After staying on a houseboat in Marari near Alappuzha with his family, Mr. Rhodes visited Fort Kochi and enjoyed a heritage walk, which surprised him with the similarities between Fort Kochi and Cape Town, where the influences of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonialism were palpable.
Kerala Tourism joint director Subair Kutty P.I. and deputy director G. Sreekumar, who were with Mr. Rhodes during the online chat, presented him with a memento at Fort Kochi.
Published – October 04, 2025 08:26 pm IST
