Republic Day 2022: Jonty Rhodes, the former South Africa cricketer received a letter from the Prime Minister of India on the occasion of its 73rd Republic Day.
PM Modi wished Jonty Rhodes on India's Republic Day and also called him "a special ambassador of the strong relations between" India and South Africa.
Jonty Rhodes also acknowledged the greeting and wrote: "Thank you @narendramodi ji for the very kind words. I have indeed grown so much as an individual on every visit to India. My whole family celebrates #RepublicDay with all of India, honouring the importance of a #Constitution that protects the rights of the Indian people #JaiHind"
Jonty Rhodes is better known for his acrobatic fielding. He was also the fielding coach of the IPL team Mumbai Indians for several years. Rhodes has, time and again, reiterated his love for India.
The Prime Minister wished Jonty on Republic Day and wrote, "I write to you and a few other friends of India, with a sense of gratitude for your affection towards India and a hope that you continue to work closely with our nation as well as our people."
"Over the years, you have developed a profound connection with India and its culture," he added.
PM also addressed the fact that Jonty Rhodes named his daughter after India. He said, "The special bond was truly reflected when you named your daughter after this great nation. You truly are a special ambassador of the strong relations between our nations."
"Once again, I extend Republic Day greetings and look forward to interacting with you in the times to come," the PM concluded.