Keshav Maharaj Creates History as First South African Spinner to Claim 200 Test Wickets
South Africa’s stand-in skipper Keshav Maharaj etched his name into the history books on Sunday by becoming the first South African spinner to reach 200 wickets in Test cricket. The landmark came during the second day of the first Test against Zimbabwe, held at Harare Sports Club, marking a proud moment in an illustrious career.
The 35-year-old veteran spinner brought up his milestone in style, dismissing Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine in a crafty battle of skippers. Maharaj cleverly tossed the ball wide outside off, dragging the length back to invite Ervine out of his crease. The Zimbabwean batter misjudged the spin, missed the ball, and was stumped for 36 off 90 balls—becoming Maharaj’s 200th Test victim.
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With this achievement, Maharaj became only the ninth South African to reach the 200-wicket mark in Tests, joining an elite pace-dominated list that includes Dale Steyn (439), Shaun Pollock (421), Makhaya Ntini (390), Kagiso Rabada (336), Allan Donald (330), Morne Morkel (309), Jacques Kallis (291), and Vernon Philander (224).
Maharaj continued to make an impact beyond his milestone. He dismissed Zimbabwe’s top scorer Sean Williams, who had been anchoring the innings with a well-compiled 137 off 164 deliveries. Maharaj deceived Williams in flight, drawing him out for another stumping. He then returned in the next over to wrap up Zimbabwe’s innings by removing Kwena Maphaka, who mistimed a lofted shot that was safely caught by Tanaka Chivanga.
The left-arm spinner ended with figures of 3/70 in 16.4 overs, bowling with control and variation at an economy of 4.20.
Supporting Maharaj’s efforts were Codi Yusuf and Wiaan Mulder, both of whom played crucial roles in dismantling Zimbabwe’s batting order. Yusuf made early inroads with the new ball, finishing with 3/42, while Mulder’s consistent line and length yielded four wickets for 50 runs in 16 overs as he cleaned up the middle and lower order.
South Africa’s bowling performance, spearheaded by Maharaj’s historic spell, ensured a commanding position for the visitors as the match progressed. His latest feat not only cements his legacy as one of the country’s greatest spin bowlers but also reaffirms his value as a leader and match-winner in the longest format of the game.
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