Keshav Maharaj Makes History, Becomes South Africa's Spin King with Landmark Test Wicket Haul

Keshav Maharaj has etched his name in South African cricket history, achieving a landmark feat as the first South African spinner to surpass 200 wickets in Test matches. This achievement occurred during South Africa's dominant performance against Zimbabwe in their ongoing Test match.

Stepping in as captain for the injured Temba Bavuma, Maharaj not only steered the Proteas with composure but also reached this significant personal milestone.

After declaring at an imposing 418/9 on Day 2, South Africa dismissed Zimbabwe for 251, securing a substantial first-innings lead of 167 runs. Sean Williams provided the main resistance for Zimbabwe, scoring a resilient 137 off 164 deliveries. However, the rest of the Zimbabwean batting lineup failed to provide adequate support.

Maharaj, South Africa’s leading left-arm spinner, claimed 3 wickets in the innings, propelling him to the top of the list of highest wicket-taking spinners in Test cricket for South Africa. With this performance, the 34-year-old reached 202 Test wickets, surpassing the previous records held by Paul Adams (134) and Hugh Tayfield (170).

Making his Test debut in 2016, Maharaj has since been a pivotal component of South Africa’s bowling attack. He accomplished this milestone in his 59th Test match. Throughout his career, he has recorded 11 five-wicket hauls and has taken four wickets in an innings on six occasions.

South Africa’s all-time highest wicket-taker in Test cricket is Dale Steyn, who amassed 439 wickets in 93 matches with an impressive average of 22.95. He is followed by Shaun Pollock with 421 wickets and Makhaya Ntini with 390.

Although Maharaj was South Africa’s most expensive bowler in this Test, conceding 70 runs in 16.4 overs, he has consistently delivered crucial wickets in critical situations.

One of his key dismissals against Zimbabwe was Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine. Maharaj tempted Ervine with a wide delivery, leading to a sharp stumping by Kyle Verreynne, sending the skipper back for just 17.