• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Keshav Maharaj Reveals The Story Behind Him Taking Up The Spin After Starting As A Seamer

Keshav Maharaj reveals the story behind him taking up the spin after starting as a seamer

image-l783luwvKeshav Maharaj (PC: Twitter)

South African spinner Keshav Maharaj has been one of the most prominent names to have risen from the South Africa national team in the last few years.

The Indian-origin cricketer, who burst onto South Africa's national team back in 2016 has gone on to establish himself as a mainstay in the Proteas side across formats.

The 32-year-old was one of the chief architects of South Africa's thumping win over England at Lord's in the first Test last week. 

He chipped in with an impetus 41-run knock with the bat and later wrecked the hosts' batting by picking up two early wickets in the second innings.

The left-arm orthodox spinner who started as a seamer before turning up to spin has recently revealed the reason behind his swift decision. Speaking in the media conference ahead of the second Test at Old Trafford Maharaj said:

"When I was 12- year-old I was a fast bowler and actually decided to be a Rebel because the coach got upset with me so I decided to take up spin at that time to irritate him even more and after that I never looked back." 

Keshav Maharaj named his role models

Maharaj further named the players he has always looked up to while mastering the spin technicalities. On being asked about his role models from the South African set-up, Maharaj responded, "Paul Adams and Paul Harris."

"Paul Harris has always been someone th at has been very close to me. He has not only helped me with my technical side of things but also from a mental point of view I thoroughly enjoyed the way he thought about the game in terms of plans."

"Paul Harris is someone that will pick up the phone without me having to ask and just give me advice and stuff which I am very grateful for."  

Keshav Maharaj will be once again seen in the action when South Africa takes on the Three Lions in the second Test, set to go underway at Manchester’s Old Trafford on August 25. 

The Ben Stokes-led lads are currently trailing 0-1 in the series and they need to win the upcoming Test to level the three-match series against the current WTC table toppers. 

ALSO READ: GUY vs SLK Prediction, Match Preview, Key Players, Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips