In a heartwarming episode during the second Test match between India and South Africa in Cape Town, spinner Keshav Maharaj experienced a unique and serene moment as he walked to the crease. The devotional tune ‘Ram Siya Ram’ accompanied his entrance, creating a charming and unexpected atmosphere on the cricket field.
Virat Kohli, positioned at slips, added a touch of reverence by welcoming Maharaj with folded hands and symbolic bow-and-arrow gestures, turning the moment into a delightful exchange. The enchanting musical accompaniment garnered attention across social media platforms, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie between players.
Keshav Maharaj, speaking about this memorable incident, acknowledged the appropriateness of the ‘Ram Siya Ram’ tune for the occasion. He recognized India as a formidable opponent and expressed his enthusiasm for the challenging and exciting series.
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“That is my entrance song. I am a devotee of Lord Hanuman and Lord Ram, so I think it is a fitting song. India is always a fierce opponent, and if you want to be the best in the world, you have to test yourself against the best in the world, so it was a really good challenge and a really exciting series,” Keshav Maharaj shared, as quoted by TOI.
“For me, God’s been my greatest blessing and if I get an opportunity it’s the least I can do and it gets you in the zone and get that respect from other players,” said Keshav Maharaj on ‘Ram Siya Ram’ being played during #SAvIND serieshttps://t.co/ZH9kx2n3Nm
— Firstpost Sports (@FirstpostSports) January 9, 2024
The 33-year-old spinner shed light on the personal significance of the ‘Ram Siya Ram’ playback each time he stepped onto the crease. Maharaj revealed that he personally requested the media to play the devotional song, attributing it to his motivation and expressing gratitude to God for his successful cricket career.
Keshav Maharaj, who delivered impressive performances against India across formats, notably played a pivotal role in the 2023 ODI World Cup, securing 15 dismissals in 10 matches while maintaining an economy rate of 4.15.
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“Obviously, something that I put forward to the media lady and requested that song to be played. For me, God has been my greatest blessing, giving me guidance and opportunity. So, it’s the least that I can do, and it also just gets you in your zone. It’s a nice feeling walking out (into the ground) to hear ‘Ram Siya Ram’ playing in the background,” Keshav Maharaj explained, as quoted by Inside Sports.
