WI Vs SA, 2nd Test: History-Maker Keshav Maharaj Helps South Africa Secure 40-Run Win over West Indies, Take Series

Providence (Guyana): Keshav Maharaj took three wickets in the second innings to help South Africa beat West Indies by 40 runs in the second Test on Saturday to win the two-match series 1-0. The first match has ended in a draw. With five wickets in the match, Maharaj also became the most successful spinner in South African cricket history. He currently leads the chart among spinners with 171 wickets. It was South Africa’s tenth consecutive Test series win against West Indies.

Maharaj’s show overshadowed a six-wicket haul by Jayden Seales in South Africa’s second innings as the tourists were dismissed for 246 after resuming on 223/5. That set the West Indies a winning target of 263 but they were in big trouble on 104/6 before Gudakesh Motie and Joshua Da Silva put together a 77-run stand to give the hosts hope of a victory.

But Maharaj accounted for them both and then surpassed Hugh Tayfield as South Africa’s most successful spinner when Seales was caught by David Bedingham at short leg to cue the South African celebrations. South Africa scored 160 in its first innings after choosing to bat first and West Indies replied with 144. The teams played to a rain-affected draw in the first test in Trinidad. The two-test series will be followed by three Twenty20 matches.

Maharaj, who was adjudged Player of the Series, said, “Was nice to get a long haul. We did well. We enjoyed it. Lot of positives. But back to the drawing board and on to the next one. I pride myself on Test cricket. Just staying loyal to the game. (Temba) Bavuma allows me to read the game.”