Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, one of the best fielders the game has ever seen, rated compatriot Jean Paul Duminy as a "great fielder".
Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, one of the best fielders the game has ever seen, rated compatriot Jean Paul Duminy as a "great fielder".
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Duminy is now playing under his childhood role model Rhodes in the Mumbai Indians team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
"Duminy is a great fielder. He is not a big sized fielder but is very quick. He is also a great boundary fielder and has taken some spectacular catches on the ropes," said Rhodes, who is now a fielding coach with the Mukesh Ambani owned Mumbai Indians.
Asked if he was looking to create another 'Jonty', Rhodes chuckled and said: "I don't want anyone to be a Jonty. I want players to be the best fielder they can be."
For Duminy it is a great privilege to play under his childhood heroes Rhodes and Shaun Pollock.
Ever since Duminy has joined the Mumbai Indians team, he has been the cynosure of all eyes. Working with fielding coach Rhodes and head mentor and advisor Pollock, Duminy is excited to be with his two idols.
"I feel privileged to be a part of this - every moment I am in awe - I mean I found myself doing a television shoot with Jonty Rhodes and Shaun Pollock last week - those guys were my heroes growing up, and now I am playing under their guidance! It is amazing," said the 25-year-old, who was bought by Mumbai Indians for a whopping $950,000.
When compared to the likes of Rhodes and Herschelle Gibbs for his brilliant fielding skills, Duminy said: "Whew! Those guys were my heroes when I was growing up! I absolutely love batting but there is also something quite special about taking a catch and seeing the batsman head back to the change-room. I hope that I can excel in both departments."
Duminy, who is rated as one of the best players to watch out for, said that he wants to go out and give his best.
"Rankings, ratings and statistics are nice to know but they should never really affect a professional sportsman. I am humbled by the accolades, but I still have a lot to learn. So I really will just go out there and aim to do my very best," he said.
On IPL being played in his country, Duminy said: "Nothing compares to this though. The hype, the excitement, the anticipation, the enthusiasm of all those involved. I have never experienced anything like this. To have such an incredible line-up of players in one tournament! Its just amazing."
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