Kevin Pietersen thanks PM Modi for R-Day wish

New Delhi: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his Republic Day greetings in a letter to the former England captain.

"Thanks for the incredibly kind words in your letter to me. Ever since stepping foot in India in 2003, I've grown more in love with your country on every visit. I was recently asked, 'what do you most like about India' & my answer was easy- THE PEOPLE. Happy Republic Day to all Indians for a couple days ago. A proud country & a powerhouse globally! I look forward to meeting you in person soon, to thank you for how India is a global leader in protecting its wildlife!" tweeted Pietersen.

On the occasion of 73rd Republic Day, PM Modi sent a greetings to English cricketer and wrote: "While your exploits on the cricketing fields are still fresh in the memories of all of us, your connect with India and Indians are truly remarkable. I also immensely enjoy going through your tweets in Hindi."

PM also wrote a letter to former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes and West Indies batting great Chris Gayle thanking for their profound connection with India and its culture.

All three cricketers have been part of the India Premier League in one role or the other over the years. (UNI)