Rhodes poised for India coaching role

Jonty Rhodes, South Africa's former talisman, has hinted that he would like to join the Indian set-up as a fielding coach. Rhodes, who retired from international cricket during the 2003 World Cup, was commonly acknowledged as the finest fielder of his generation, and is keen to pass on his skills to future stars of the game.

"It'll be a perfect marriage," Rhodes told the Press Trust of India. "I love fielding and being in India. I will be happy to be here and impart some of the fielding wisdom I got in South Africa. It's great to convert non-athletes into athletes."

Rhodes was speaking at a ceremony in New Delhi, where he refused to be drawn on India's prospects in the Champions Trophy. "The fortunes of a team could be changed in a span of just 10 overs," he said. "One bad match and you are out. You need to perform from the word go."

Nevertheless, he singled out Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif as two of the finest fielders on show, and added that Sachin Tendulkar was a superb man to have in the deep. "They are role models," said Rhodes. "Whatever they do on the field inspires youngsters."

India's opening match of the Champions Trophy comes on Saturday, September 11, when they play Kenya at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Their showdown against Pakistan follows eight days later at Edgbaston.