South African left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj once again proved why he deserves to be rated among the best spinners in world cricket. In the first ODI against England, Maharaj produced a match-winning spell of 4/22, dismantling England’s batting order and helping South Africa register a commanding seven-wicket victory.
England were bowled out for 131 in 24.3 overs, with Maharaj playing a decisive role in triggering the collapse. He dismissed Jacob Bethell and Will Jacks before cleaning up the tail with consecutive wickets of Adil Rashid and debutant Sonny Baker, sealing England’s fate.
“Maharaj’s spell of 4/22 is now the best-ever ODI bowling performance by a South African spinner against England, surpassing Imran Tahir’s 4/38,” South African media reported.
His controlled flight, use of the arm ball, and relentless accuracy left the English batters clueless.
Keshav Maharaj’s Career Stats Across Formats
Format
Matches
Wickets
Average
Best Bowling
Tests
50+
203
29.83
9/129
ODIs
50+
68
29.90
4/22 (vs ENG, 2025)
T20Is
30+
38
25.80
3/20
These numbers reflect Maharaj’s consistency across all formats. Despite not always being in the spotlight, he remains South Africa’s go-to bowler in pressure situations.
Keshav Maharaj is often overshadowed by fast bowlers in South Africa’s pace-heavy attack, but his impact cannot be overstated.
Match-Winner: His spell against England showed his ability to change the course of the game.
Versatile Across Formats: Few spinners maintain such consistency in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Leader in the Dressing Room: Maharaj has also captained South Africa on occasions, adding leadership value.
England vs South Africa 1st ODI – Match Highlights
England Innings (131 All Out in 24.3 Overs)
Jamie Smith was the lone fighter with a brilliant 54 (48), hitting 10 fours.
England’s collapse: Lost last 7 wickets for just 29 runs.
Wiaan Mulder struck crucial blows, taking 3/33 including Buttler (15) and Jofra Archer (0).
Keshav Maharaj was the star with the ball – 4/22, including Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Adil Rashid, and Sonny Baker.
England bundled out for 131 – their lowest ODI total against South Africa in recent years.
South Africa Chase (132/3 in 20.3 Overs)
Aiden Markram played a match-winning knock – 86 (55) with 13 fours and 2 sixes.
Markram shared a 100+ run stand with Rickelton to seal the chase.
Adil Rashid provided some consolation with 3 wickets, including Markram, but it was too late.
South Africa chased down the target with 177 balls to spare.
Player of the Match
Keshav Maharaj – 4/22, best figures by a South African spinner against England in ODIs.
