Keshav Maharaj surprised over SA Player of the Year award: ‘Others deserve it more’
Keshav Maharaj, a key figure in South Africa’s World Test Championship victory, was unexpectedly named Cricket SA Men’s Player of the Year, highlighting the evolving role of spinners in South African Test cricket. Picture: AFP
Image: AFP
When one thinks of the stars of the Proteas team which won the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June, the names of Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada are probably first on the list.
Yet, Keshav Maharaj walked away with the Cricket SA Men’s Player of the Year award at a ceremony held at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg on Thursday evening.
Though he was a surprise winner ahead of specifically Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma, who was the leading run-scorer for his side in the WTC cycle, it’s not to say Maharaj’s award was not deserved.
The 35-year-old Maharaj claimed 40 Test wickets over the qualification period, as he was a key figure in the Proteas bowling attack.
Maharaj Surprised and Honoured at Receiving Special Acknowledgment in a Successful Year for Proteas
“Look, firstly it was very unexpected. But yeah, it's very special to be acknowledged in a year that's been a successful year for the Proteas brand,” Maharaj said.
“It's always special. Obviously there are some guys who are nominated who are obviously more than deserving recipients of this.
So this came as a surprise to me, but very privileged and honoured to be able to receive this award today.”
The Evolving Role of Spinners in South African Test Cricket: Maharaj’s Perspective
Traditionally, South Africa has not relied much on spinners in Test cricket, but that seems to be changing, and it’s clearly something that has pleased Maharaj.
“I would like to think so [the spinners’ roles have changed in SA].
“I think it’s also nice to have a captain that gives you the ball when he trusts you. And not just before tea or any given intervals, especially in conditions that don’t suit you. And hopefully that’s changing the mindset and narrative going forward to all the young spinners that are coming through the system.”