It was an emotional moment for Keshav Maharaj as South Africa inched closer to a historic World Test Championship (WTC) triumph at Lord’s. With just 69 runs separating them from glory on the fourth evening against Australia, Maharaj admitted he was overwhelmed, reflecting on what a potential victory would mean—not just to the players, but to a cricket-loving nation that has waited far too long for an ICC trophy.
South Africa last lifted a senior men’s ICC trophy back in 1998, and since then, heartbreak has followed them across formats and generations. Whether it was the 2024 T20 World Cup final loss to India or earlier missteps in semifinals and finals, the ‘chokers’ label has cruelly stuck—even when undeserved. But now, that narrative could finally change.
With Aiden Markram unbeaten on 102 and skipper Temba Bavuma on a fighting 65, South Africa is on the brink of a monumental win, chasing 282 on the final day.
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“It would mean everything,” Keshav Maharaj told the ICC, his voice cracking with emotion. “Not just for us on the field or the fans here in England, but for everyone back home. It’s been a long wait for our country to hold an ICC trophy again. I’m sorry… I’m getting a bit teary-eyed, but this is very close to our hearts. To be part of something so significant after everything our country has endured—it would be a true privilege.”
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The left-arm spinner reserved special praise for the two men at the crease. “Aiden was something else today,” Maharaj said. “You could see the hunger in his eyes, the focus. He thrives on big moments, and this is a huge one—getting a hundred at Lord’s in a WTC Final against a side like Australia.”
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He was equally admiring of Bavuma. “He’s carrying a niggle, but his spirit hasn’t wavered. He’s battling alongside Aiden, adjusting to the physical strain. The way they discussed their approach at tea—so clear, so united—it was inspiring. Aiden adapted, knowing Temba can’t run full tilt, and that’s what teamwork looks like. They’re not just batting; they’re fighting for a nation’s dream,” Maharaj concluded.
