South Africa's cricket team has received a major boost with the return of star spinner Keshav Maharaj for the second test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. Captain Aiden Markram announced Maharaj's return, expressing confidence that his experience and skill set will be crucial as the Proteas look to level the series after losing the first test by 93 runs in Lahore.
Maharaj, 35, had been sidelined with a groin injury, forcing him to miss the first test. His return is a welcome sight for the South African camp, as his 203 wickets in 59 tests make him their most successful spin bowler.
"Obviously, it’s great to have him back in the camp,” Markram said during a press conference on Sunday. “He brings lots of experience and a really good skill set as well, so we're looking forward to this game starting tomorrow, which is an opportunity for us to level the series, but also to keep improving in these conditions and fixing some of the stuff that we feel needs fixing from the first game."
The Lahore test was heavily influenced by spinners, and Markram anticipates a similar pitch in Rawalpindi. "We're expecting it to spin. We've expected those types of conditions from day one, and it's about us having done some homework post the first test and coming up with new plans to hopefully counter that and give ourselves a chance of succeeding in these conditions."
With Maharaj's inclusion, one of the three spinners from the previous match – Simon Harmer, Senuran Muthusamy, or Prenelan Subrayen – will likely be dropped. Pakistan's victory in Lahore brought an end to South Africa's impressive 10-match winning streak in test cricket. The Proteas will be eager to bounce back and secure a victory in Rawalpindi to level the series.
Key Player Returns
- Keshav Maharaj back from injury
- Boost for South Africa's spin attack
- Aiming to level the series against Pakistan