‘One of the most balanced bowling attacks’ – Keshav Maharaj confident on South Africa’s chances at WTC Final 2025

Keshav Maharaj has voiced confidence in South Africa’s bowling attack for the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s, citing balance and variation as key components of their recent success.

Kagiso Rabada’s rip, Lungi Ngidi’s nip, Marco Jansen’s bounce, and Maharaj’s guile combine to form a well-rounded bowling unit, which Maharaj understands. Furthermore, South Africa may rely on Aiden Markram‘s useful spin and Wiaan Mulder’s medium pace.

“The versatility in our bowling attack truly complements one another. We have height, speed, swing, aggression, and still keep control.

“It’s probably one of the best balanced attacks we’ve had in a long time,” Keshav Maharaj told Star Sports.

“After the greats left, we went through a transition to find the proper combination, and I feel we’ve now identified a critical component in our team’s success. The variety has been crucial, and if you look at how the cycle has unfolded, it’s been a team effort from our bowlers. That demonstrates how crucial variation is, particularly across diverse conditions,” he noted.

Maharaj also discussed the lasting intensity and mental difficulty of Test cricket ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final, describing it as a “skill and character” test.

“I believe Test cricket is a true test of skill and character. You must remain unrelenting for five days. You might win one day, but the next four are critical – you can’t take your foot off the throttle’, Maharaj explained.

“When you win a Test match or series, you’re physically, psychologically, and emotionally exhausted because you gave your all. The game may appear leisurely, but the intensity is unparalleled. It’s a true test, and in pressure situations, character shines through – and that’s what makes Test cricket so remarkable,” he said.