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

Keshav 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."