The India versus South Africa Test series is set to begin on November 14, and fans are excited ahead of the two-match leg that starts at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. With anticipation building around the high-stakes red-ball battle, South Africa’s experienced spinner Keshav Maharaj took part in a fun rapid-fire chat, sharing some candid, humorous, and heartfelt responses. His answers offered fans a refreshing insight into his cricketing memories, personal tastes, and on-field challenges.
Keshav Maharaj reveals his favourite international wicket and toughest batter
In the rapid-fire interaction, Maharaj reflected on some of the most memorable moments of his career, beginning with his favourite international wicket. Without hesitation, he picked former India captain Rohit Sharma, a dismissal he fondly remembers from the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 — a moment that clearly holds emotional significance for the left-arm spinner.
When asked about his favourite mode of dismissal, Maharaj opted for ‘stumped,’ a wicket that often rewards spin bowlers for deception and flight. The answer perfectly reflects his success in outclassing batters through subtle variations.
The fun segment also brought out the human side of the Proteas spinner. Maharaj revealed that cooking is one of his hidden talents, a hobby many fans were delighted to learn about.
However, one of the standout answers came when he named the toughest batter he has bowled to. Maharaj recalled his early days, saying he was ‘fortunate enough to bowl to the late Phil Hughes,’ describing how difficult it was to bowl against the Australian batter. The heartfelt mention of Hughes added a sentimental layer to the chat.
Maharaj further shared that his favourite Indian dish is Chole Bhature, expressing his love for the popular North Indian delicacy. When asked which teammate he has on speed dial, he quickly named Kagiso Rabada, highlighting their close bond on and off the field.
As for a superpower he wishes he had — Maharaj picked invisibility, a fun and imaginative choice consistent with the light-hearted nature of the segment.
Here’s the rapid fire round:
- Q: Your favourite international wicket?
Maharaj: Rohit Sharma, in the final of the T20 World Cup 2024. - Q: Favourite mode of dismissal?
Maharaj: Stumped - Q: One hidden talent of yours?
Maharaj: I love cooking - Q: One batter who has challenged you the most?
Maharaj: Phil Hughes - Q: Favourite Indian dish?
Maharaj: Chole Bhature - Q: One teammate you have on speeddial?
Maharaj: KG Rabada - Q: A superpower you wish you had?
Maharaj: Invisibility
Buzz among fans as star-studded sides ready for a red-ball battle
With both teams featuring world-class talent, the excitement for the series continues to build. India, led by Shubman Gill, boast an elite lineup featuring Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa, captained by Temba Bavuma, arrive with proven performers such as Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada.
As Eden Gardens prepares to host the opening Test, fans eagerly await a competitive, high-quality contest between two well-balanced and star-studded sides.
Also WATCH: Shubman Gill reveals the toughest bowler he faced, cheat meals and personal insights in fun rapid-fire chat
