Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who retired from the game of cricket in 2003, is still considered the best fielder in the cricketing history. The Proteas had a discussion with the Indian cricketer Suresh Raina on the importance of fielding during the live session on Instagram.
Being a batsman, Rhodes made his name in the fielding department. Diving to his left and right was an easy task from him. He worked harder on his physique and brought a revolution in fielding.
On Sunday, while talking to Suresh Raina, the 40-year-old Rhodes opines that fielding gives value addition to the player. He took Virat Kohli as an example and cited the importance of catching.
According to Jonty Rhodes, if a fielder like Virat Kohli is in the field, no player would like to give the catch to him. He further went on to heap praise on Virat’s fitness. Rhodes mentioned him as the fittest who has transformed himself from a chubby lad to a robust player.
“For example, catching in Test is just as important. You don’t want to give players like Virat Kohli a chance even in a Test match,”Jonty Rhodes said to Suresh Raina.
“We have to look at different physical requirements for players, how often they got injured and how much fitness has improved their games. In that scenario, Virat Kohli’s transformation from a chubby lad after realising the importance of fitness is unbelievable. Not only exercise but to look after his diet. He is the fittest in my opinion,” the 50-year old said.
Further, Jonty Rhodes praised India’s current fielding sensation Ravindra Jadeja. He says Jadeja shows full commitment while fielding. He anticipates and runs fast than others which makes him better than other fielders.