New Delhi: Indian-origin spinner Keshav Maharaj made his Test debut for South Africa against Australia during the first Test in Perth on Thursday. The South African citizen becomes the first spin debutant at Perth. He will form a part of South Africa’s bowling attack consisting Dale steyn, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada.
The 26-year-old enjoyed a fine form in the first class competition earlier this year with a career best of 13/57 against the Warriors.
Maharaj was favoured over experienced Imraan Tahir and Simon Harner in the playing XI on a pitch that is expected to favour quicks.
Here are 5 interesting facts about South Africa’s latest debutant:
- Before Keshav Maharaj had turned three, former Indian cricketer Kiran More looked at his palms and predicted: "This child will be a cricketer."
- Sports was in the family DNA, father Athmanand could not break into the big league due to the colour of his skin. His son has now fulfilled a dream.
- Keshav Maharaj is a product of South Africa’s socio-political system. He is the by-product of Cricket South Africa’s increasing effort to strike a balance between black and white.
- He began his life as a seamer and batsman in the Bakers Mini-Cricket programme, before taking up spin.
- His fondnesses for cooking saw him writing a food blog and speak on local radio channels in South Africa.