In a surprising yet pride-inducing moment for Indian automotive fans, South African cricket legends Jonty Rhodes and Allan Donald have chosen to drive home the Mahindra XUV700, one of India’s most premium and technologically advanced SUVs. The news has taken the automotive and cricketing world by storm, reflecting both the global rise of Mahindra as a brand and the growing soft power of Indian engineering on the international stage.
But why are these global cricketing icons opting for an Indian SUV? What makes the XUV700 such a standout vehicle even among the world’s best? And how does this move influence Mahindra’s image globally?
Let’s explore the full story.
✅ A Perfect Drive for Cricketing Greats
Cricketers like Jonty Rhodes and Allan Donald are not just names — they are legends who have helped define South African cricket during its golden years. Known for his agility, energy, and charm, Jonty Rhodes is admired globally, especially in India, where he enjoys a fan base equal to many Bollywood stars. Allan Donald, the legendary fast bowler known as “White Lightning,” brought fear to batsmen with his pace and precision.
For icons of such stature to opt for an Indian-made vehicle sends a strong message: Mahindra is no longer just a domestic brand; it’s a global contender.
✅ Mahindra XUV700: More Than Just an SUV
The Mahindra XUV700 is a premium mid-size SUV launched as the successor to the successful XUV500. It’s packed with features that rival even some international giants like Toyota Fortuner, Hyundai Tucson, and Jeep Compass — and in many ways, it outperforms them in value.
Here are a few standout features that might have attracted these cricket stars:
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems): Includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
- Diesel & Petrol Engine Options: 2.0L turbo petrol and 2.2L diesel engines with manual and automatic options.
- Best-in-class Safety: 5-star Global NCAP rating.
- Luxury Touches: Panoramic sunroof, dual HD infotainment screens, premium cabin materials, and Sony 3D surround sound system.
- Smart Technology: Alexa integration, voice commands, and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
This blend of power, technology, and comfort might explain why high-profile users like Rhodes and Donald are drawn to it.
✅ Global Appeal of an Indian Brand
Mahindra’s reputation has been evolving over the last decade. Once seen as a utility-focused domestic manufacturer, Mahindra is now being recognized as a premium, innovative automotive brand with a clear vision of international expansion.
The brand’s participation in Formula E, acquisition of international brands like SsangYong, and consistent innovation in SUVs and electric vehicles are turning heads globally.
When sports icons from abroad choose Indian-made vehicles, it’s more than just a purchase — it’s a vote of confidence in Indian manufacturing and design.
✅ Jonty Rhodes: A Long-Time India Admirer
Jonty Rhodes has a deep and longstanding connection with India. He has served as a fielding coach for IPL teams, publicly expressed his love for Indian culture, and even named his daughter “India.”
His decision to buy a Mahindra vehicle seems to come from both admiration and informed choice. In multiple interviews, Jonty has shown a genuine interest in Indian innovation, yoga, vegetarianism, and sustainability — and Mahindra’s evolving identity aligns perfectly with that.
✅ Allan Donald: The Fast Bowler Turns Smart Buyer
Allan Donald choosing the XUV700 reflects how modern sports personalities are looking beyond legacy brands for quality and performance. Donald, known for his discipline and precision on the field, is seen as someone who chooses performance and value over branding alone — traits perfectly mirrored by the XUV700.
With both petrol and diesel options and highway-friendly performance, it’s a car made for someone who still enjoys long, controlled drives.
✅ The X-Factor: Indian Craftsmanship Meets World-Class Engineering
The choice of the XUV700 by international cricketers is also a story of how Indian engineering and craftsmanship have matured. The SUV was designed and built entirely in India, tailored not only for Indian roads but adaptable to global terrains and standards.
The SUV competes confidently with European and Korean brands — in style, safety, and performance — while being significantly more affordable.
✅ A Big Win for Indian Automobiles
Cricket is not just a sport in India; it’s an emotion. And when international cricket stars endorse an Indian product, the emotional connection becomes even stronger.
This also brings us to a broader implication: India is no longer just a market for global brands; it’s becoming a brand in itself. The Mahindra XUV700 stands as a shining example of how Indian products are not just fulfilling domestic needs but also winning global admiration.
✅ Final Thoughts: A Drive into the Future
The Mahindra XUV700’s popularity is already soaring in India, with long waiting periods and increasing demand. But the real triumph lies in its growing global presence, driven by choices like those made by Jonty Rhodes and Allan Donald.
It’s not just about an SUV anymore. It’s about India’s journey from being a consumer of international brands to becoming a creator of global icons.
For cricket fans and automobile enthusiasts alike, this crossover of legends and machines is both symbolic and inspiring.
Hello, my name is Muskan Kumari and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 3 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
