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Fresh Off WTC Triumph, South Africa Names Keshav Maharaj as Stand-In Test Captain for Zimbabwe Series:
Samira Vishwas | June 29, 2025 4:24 PM CST


Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Just weeks after their historic victory in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, South Africa has been forced to make a significant change in leadership. Veteran spinner Keshav Maharaj has been appointed as the stand-in captain for the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, following an injury to regular skipper Temba Bavuma.

The captaincy change comes as a direct result of the injury Bavuma sustained during the hard-fought WTC final against India. The valiant captain suffered a hamstring strain while fielding, an injury that requires a period of recovery and has officially ruled him out of the home series against their African neighbors. While Bavuma lifted the coveted WTC Mace for his country, the moment was bittersweet as it came at the cost of his immediate availability.

In Bavuma’s absence, the leadership mantle falls to one of the team’s most experienced and respected figures. Keshav Maharaj, a cornerstone of the Proteas’ bowling attack, is no stranger to captaincy. He has successfully led his domestic side, the Dolphins, and has previously served as a stand-in captain for the national team in One-Day Internationals. His calm demeanor, tactical acumen, and status as a senior player made him the natural choice for the role.

The upcoming series against Zimbabwe will be South Africa’s first assignment as the reigning world champions in Test cricket. While they enter the series as clear favorites, the team will be keen to start the new WTC cycle with a dominant performance under their new, temporary leader.

Cricket South Africa has expressed full confidence in Maharaj’s ability to guide the team. The series will serve as a crucial test of the squad’s depth and Maharaj’s leadership as they look to build on their championship momentum and begin their reign at the top of Test cricket on a winning note.

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