T20 World Cup 2024: Keshav Maharaj predicts nature of surfaces teams might encounter in West Indies

June 2024 is set to witness the T20I World Cup take place in the West Indies and USA. England will be defending their crown while South Africa will look to win their first. Keshav Maharaj recently spoke to the media ahead of the SA20 final.

The veteran spin bowler spoke about the likely conditions the teams could face in the Caribbean. According to Keshav Maharaj, spin could play a major role during the tournament. Over the years pitches have changed in West Indies as spin has taken major effect.

On Saturday Keshav Maharaj and his Durban will take on defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape. The two teams have been in terrific form during the entire season occupying the top three spots in the table.

Keshav Maharaj predicts the likely conditions in the Caribbean

Durban Super Giants skipper and South African bowler Keshav Maharaj feels the wickets in the West Indies could offer spin. Speaking to the media he said “Spinners will play a crucial role in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Wickets are getting better and boundaries are getting shorter. There is much need for a spinner in the team to provide control and variety”

Considered one of the best spinners of this era, Maharaj wants to help the youngsters grow. “You have to be street smart to succeed in T20 as a left-arm spinner. Do your homework. There is a need for any left-arm or right arm or finger spinner to complement each other. If I can help the youngsters in this art of finger spin, I would like to believe that there will be some sort of motivation for them to continue with it and progress to higher level in international cricket,”

Despite his wealth of experience, Maharaj hasn’t played the IPL. While addressing this issue the bowler said “I haven’t had IPL experience as yet but have been involved in SA20 and it is very good for the game. It is really drawing a lot of good exposure for the fans. It is also a nice incentive for local cricketers to rub shoulders with the best in the world”

Finally, before ending his chat with the PTI, Keshav Maharaj sounded hopeful of going to Ayodhya. “I am a very staunch devotee of Lord Ram and something of that magnitude to happen is something special. It doesn’t happen in many places around the world so I was quite excited that it did happen. I am sure if I do come to India in the near future and if time allows, I would love to make a trip to Ayodhya”