You can argue about who the best batsman or bowler of all time is, but when the discussion veers towards fielders, the answer is unanimous — Jonty Rhodes. The ex-South African cricketer was in the city for the launch of his new range of nutritional supplements under ESN (Evolution Sports Nutrition).
The 42-year-old who was known for his agility on the greens is still fitter than most cricketers even years after quitting the game. Talking about trying his hand at many jobs, and finally this venture, Jonty said, “I’ve always been known for my fielding and a big part of being an agile fielder is fitness. Since quitting cricket I’ve worked for a bank back home, tried exporting wine and now we have launched a wide variety of nutritional products that are required in India.”
He isn’t the brand ambassador, Jonty stresses, he is the director of the company and his presence will definitely lend credibility to the brand. About his own post-retirement fitness regime, Jonty says, “I enjoy being outside. Playing in the early 90’s was different. We just had one coach and one physio. I played hockey as well, so when I got into the international cricket side I’d play cricket for six months and for the rest of the time I was playing hockey, and I was naturally fit as opposed to working out in a gym. Now, I’ve got a mountain bike at home and I enjoy swimming.”
And when talking about supplements, the stringent anti-doping norms and drug testing makes it necessary to have strict quality control, says Jonty. “Whatever it says on the label is in it, and even my friends who are currently playing can use it — it’s been ensured that it’s drug-free.”
He’s often been seen zipping on the streets on Mumbai on a Royal Enfield Bullet and has done some serious travelling durin the IPLs. “I’ve gone from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. During IPL you are generally in a city for just a couple of days, but if I get one day more than that I have to get out. I’ve ridden in Jaipur and Chennai. In Mumbai I ask people for places to go and just jump on the bike and get lost. I am anxiously waiting to do a Ladakh trip someday,” he signs off.