Keshav Maharaj Becomes First South African Spinner to Claim 200 Test Wickets

Keshav Maharaj etched his name into the record books on Sunday, becoming the first South African spinner to reach the milestone of 200 Test wickets. The landmark came on Day 2 of the opening Test against Zimbabwe, where the 35-year-old also led the Proteas as captain.

Maharaj’s historic moment arrived in a fitting fashion—outfoxing Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine with a masterfully flighted delivery. Tempting Ervine out of his crease with a wide ball that gripped and turned, Maharaj had him stumped for 36 off 90 balls, completing his 200th scalp in the format and winning a crucial duel of captains.

With this feat, Maharaj became only the ninth South African bowler to join the elite 200-wicket club in Test cricket. He follows in the footsteps of greats like 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). However, he stands alone as the only spinner among them.

Continuing his impactful spell, Maharaj struck again soon after, dismissing centurion Sean Williams for 137 with a delivery that deceived him in flight and led to another stumping. He wrapped up Zimbabwe’s innings in his very next over by removing Kwena Maphaka, who skied a shot to be caught by Tanaka Chivanga. Maharaj finished with figures of 3/70 in 16.4 overs, maintaining control with an economy rate of 4.20.

Maharaj’s performance was well-supported by seamers Codi Yusuf and Wiaan Mulder. Yusuf was instrumental in dismantling Zimbabwe’s top order, claiming 3/42, while Mulder mopped up the middle and lower order with a disciplined spell of 4/50 from 16 overs at 3.10 economy.