West
Indies legend Chris Gayle and former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes revealed
that they received personal messages from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on
India’s Republic Day. While Gayle congratulated India on their 73rd Republic
Day on Wednesday, Rhodes said “his whole family celebrates the Republic Day
with all of India”.

Also Read: Republic Day 2022: Cricket fraternity extends greetings

Two-time
T20 World Cup-winning star Gayle took to micro-blogging site Twitter to
disclose PM Modi’s message to him. The southpaw also talked about his “close
personal ties” with the people of India.

“I
would like to congratulate India on their 73rd Republic Day. I woke up to a
personal message from Prime Minister Modi @narendramodi reaffirming my close
personal ties with him and to the people of India. Congratulations from the
Universe Boss and nuff love,” tweeted Gayle.

Also Read: Chris Gayle’s home farewell doubtful, out of Windies squads vs Ireland, England

Gayle,
42, is a very popular cricketer in India and across the world for his stylish
and attacking batting. He also holds the record of highest individual score in
an innings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His 66-ball 175 against defunct
Pune Warriors is the highest individual score in an innings was one heck of an
innings. He also owns the record of most centuries (6), the most sixes scored
(326) in the history of IPL and most sixes in a match (17), fastest century
(from 30 balls).

“The
Universe Boss”, as he likes to refer himself, was last seen in action in
the IPL for Punjab Kings.

Also Read: Netaji Subhash Chadra Bose statue to be installed at India Gate: PM Modi

However,
the Gayle storm will be missing from the upcoming IPL as he has reportedly not
enrolled himself in the auction.

Also Read: PM Modi lauds district magistrates, says teamwork of Centre, states yielding good results

Rhodes,
known for his acrobatic fielding skills, has developed a special connection
with India, naming his second daughter India Jeanne Jonty Rhodes.

Also Read: Amar Jawan Jyoti: History and significance

Former
South Africa cricketer took to Twitter to post the letter he received from PM Modi. “You
are truly a special ambassador of the strong relations between our nations,”
Modi wrote to Rhodes.