Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 9: Ahead of South Africa’s highly anticipated clash against Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s, left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj expressed his optimism that this could finally be the moment the Proteas bring home a long-sought trophy.
Maharaj, who has experienced the heartbreak of finishing runners-up at the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and semifinal exits at the 2023 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, is hopeful the team can turn near-misses into a triumph.
“In the past, nobody really expected us to reach the knockouts, but we’ve made two semifinals and two finals. Hopefully, this time we can turn all those close calls into success,” Maharaj told ICC on Monday.
Reflecting on South Africa’s brand of cricket in recent years, Maharaj said, “There’s a lot of inspiration to draw from the way we’ve played over the last three or four years. If we stay true to that, this could be the moment we finally lift that trophy that’s eluded us for so long.”
He also reminisced about watching the team lift the Test mace back in 2012 and emphasized how important it is for the current side to honor past legends. “We want to be seen in the same light as those greats. To hold the Test mace would be the ultimate prize.”
South Africa heads into the final buoyed by seven consecutive Test victories, finishing at the top of the WTC points table. “When we started this journey two years ago, no one believed we’d be here,” Maharaj noted. “With every series, we’ve grown, and the mix of youth and experience has helped us compete for another trophy. The hard work is paying off, and now it’s about enjoying the occasion and playing with freedom.”
Personally, Maharaj is just two wickets shy of the 200-wicket milestone in Tests — an achievement that could come at one of cricket’s most historic venues. “It would be very special to reach that at Lord’s,” he said. “I don’t focus on the numbers too much; I just want to help my team win — maybe even take a 10-fer!”
Playing at Lord’s is also a dream come true. “It’s one of those bucket-list venues for any cricketer. To do it in front of my family would be extra special. I’ve enjoyed the journey so far, and I hope there’s plenty more to come.”
South Africa will be hoping Maharaj’s optimism translates into success — and that this final marks a new chapter in their quest for cricketing glory.