Delhi: South African veteran all -rounder Keshav Maharaj may not be a part of the recently played T20 series against Australia, but his focus is now on the next year’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will be played in joint hosting of India and Sri Lanka. Maharaj has clearly said that he does not want to miss any match before this big tournament and wants to get South Africa a World Cup.

Passion still remains intact

Maharaj said, “T20 World Cup 2026 is very important for me. At the moment, I am happy to play all three formats. I still like to bowl and until this passion is less, I want to be a match winner playing in all three formats for my country.”

Confidence maintained despite injury

Recently, during the Test series against Zimbabwe, he had a stretch in his waist, due to which he could not play the second Test. After this, he also had to sit out of the T20 series against Australia. However, Maharaj says that getting out of this series is not a big obstacle for him and he is now fully ready.

Career record so far

Keshav Maharaj has so far taken 38 wickets in 39 T20 matches at an average of 25.84. In the ODI, he took 58 wickets in 48 matches, while in Test cricket he has taken 203 wickets in 100 innings of 59 matches so far.

Focus on ODI series against Australia

After the T20 series, Keshav Maharaj is now part of the team in the ODI series against Australia. He said, “Yes, I am available for this. I think coach Shukri Conrad is trying to do something new. Hopefully I will get a chance to show my ability.”

Series schedule

The three ODI series between South Africa and Australia will begin on August 19. The first match will be played in Cairns, while on August 22 and 24, both teams will be face to face in McKay.