MAHARAJ SWAPS LUCKNOW FOR RAJASTHAN TO CLAIM IPL PLAYING GIG

Keshav Maharaj has benefited from being in the right place at the right time.

The Durban’s Super Giants captain has swapped his training stint with Lucknow Super Giants to a full playing deal at Rajasthan Royals, just four days after the two teams faced each other in their opening match of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Royals Sports Group, who also own Paarl Royals in Betway SA20, confirmed the signing of ‘Kesh’ as a replacement player for Prasidh Krishna, who had to withdraw due to injury.

The 34-year-old left-arm spinner will be taking part in his first-ever IPL season and joins on the back of claiming the joint-fifth highest wickets (15) during SA20 Season 2. The born-and-bred Durbanite also showed his leadership credentials in guiding DSG to the Final.

Welcoming the South African spinning all-rounder to the franchise, Royals’ Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara said, “Keshav (Maharaj) is a great addition to our squad with his quality and understanding of the game. He is hugely experienced and an outstanding individual off the field as well. His addition will further improve the depth and quality of our squad, and we look forward to having him contribute with his performances.”

Maharaj, who has appeared in 50 Tests, 44 ODIs and 27 T20Is for the Proteas, will have national teammates Nandre Burger and Donovan Ferreira for company in the Royals camp, while Jos Buttler will also be a familiar face from SA20.