South African spinner Keshav Maharaj has made headlines once again, this time for his unique choice of exit music. When he came out to bat during the second Test against Pakistan at Newlands, the stadium DJ played the devotional song “Ram Siya Ram”.
Why “Ram Siya Ram” plays for Maharaj
For those unfamiliar, the name “Keshav” is one of the many names of Lord Ram, a revered Hindu deity. Maharaj, born to parents of Indian origin in Durban, wears his cultural roots with pride. No wonder he feels a connection to the song.
Maharaj has previously told the story of this song in an interview during the SA20 League. “I once asked the stadium DJ to play it,” he said. “It boosts my confidence and helps me feel grounded. God is my greatest strength.”
This is not the first time the song has been played during a match. During South Africa's limited overs series against India, fans noticed the same devotional tune echoing throughout the stadium. Even Indian captain KL Rahul was curious. During a test, he asked Maharaj about the repetitive song. However, the left-arm spinner kept the mystery alive at the time.
A spiritual moment on the field
The moment gained more attention during the second Test in Cape Town. As Maharaj walked out to bat, the familiar strains of “Ram Siya Ram” filled the air. The sight of Virat Kohli standing with folded hands as the song played added to the unique scene.
Cricket matches are rarely associated with devotional music. However, for Maharaj, it is a ritual that combines faith with sport. “Respect for culture and religion is vital,” Maharaj said. “Listening to that song in the stadium gives me inner peace.”
Babar Azam engages in a deep conversation with Marco Jansen during the second Test at Newlands
Commanding performance by South Africa at Newlands
While Maharaj's song grabbed attention, the real fireworks happened on the field. South Africa dominated Pakistanposting 566 for 7 – their highest home total in four years. Ryan Rickelton led the offense with a career-best 259. His innings, just short of Stephen Fleming's 262 at Newlands, was a master of patience and power.
Kyle Verreynne, continuing his impressive form, brought up his fourth Test hundred. His aggressive approach kept Pakistan on their toes. Even after his sacking, South Africa's momentum never faded. Marco Jansen, struggling with form all year, made a statement with a whirlwind 57 off 42 balls. His haul included six fours and three sixes.
The Proteas added 137 runs in the afternoon session alone, grinding the Pakistani bowlers into dust. The visitors, despite their best efforts, could not make any meaningful inroads on a leveled wicket.
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