Rhodes sees cricketing future in Israel; India to lend a helping hand

As part of the celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the State of Israel, Jhonty Rhodes, the South African international, who was participating in a three–match one day series between Israel Invitational XI and India A said, "Israelis would make great cricketers due to their tenacious attitude."

Rhodes voted as one of the ‘Wisden Cricketers of the Year’ in 1999, after his enormous contributions and achievements in the field of cricket, in an interview with Jerusalem Post said, developing cricket in a country with no history and culture of the game is difficult, but definitely positive.

India for sure has a role here. The cricket crazy country, are die–hard fans of the game and its players. The national Indian team has excelled in all aspects of the game. And hence, the Israel team keen to taste success in cricket, has sought the help of 'Board of Cricket Council in India' (BCCI), to assist Israel in its 'Cricket' dream.

The games between the Israel Invitation XI and India A will take place in Ashdod Park on July 13, 14, and 16. Israeli cricketers from all over the world have been called to join the team, in its competition.

Bensiyon Songavkar, an Indian Jew, will also be part of the Israeli team, playing against his countrymen.

Jhonty Rhodes, the South African distinguished, has full of praises for the cricketers and the country (Israel).

"I am a Christian, and my knowledge of Israel comes from the Exodus (by Leon Uris) and how tenacious and determined the people here are to have transformed the desert into this thriving economy," he told the JP.

"It's genius, and the people here are tenacious to be able to make a living in a really harsh environment. I think they really would make great cricket players," he added.