Ram Siya Ram stars as Keshav Maharaj goes out to bat against Pakistan

South African spinner Keshav Maharaj has made headlines 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 Maharaj

For the uninitiated, the name “Keshav” is one of the many names of Lord Ram, a revered Hindu deity. Born to parents of Indian origin in Durban, Maharaj wears his cultural roots with pride. It’s no wonder he feels a connection to the song.

Maharaj has previously shared the story behind this song in an interview during the SA20 League. “I asked the stadium DJ once to play it,” he said. “It boosts my confidence and helps me feel grounded. God is my greatest strength.”

It’s not the first time the song has been played during a game. 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 recurring song. The left-arm spinner, however, kept the mystery alive then.

A spiritual moment in the field

The moment gained more attention during the second Test in Cape Town. As Maharaj came out to bat, the familiar strains of ‘Ram Siya Ram’ filled the air. The sight of Virat Kohli standing with his hands together 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. “Respecting culture and religion is vital,” Maharaj said. “Hearing this song in the stadium gives me inner peace.”

Babar Azam has a deep conversation with Marco Jansen during the second Test at Newlands

South Africa’s main performance at Newlands

While Maharaj’s marching song captured the attention, the real fireworks happened on the field. south africa dominated Pakistanwith 566 for 7, its highest housing total in four years. Ryan Rickelton led the charge with a career-best 259. His innings, just short of Stephen Fleming’s 262 at Newlands, was a master class in patience and power.

Kyle Verreynne, continuing his impressive form, brought up his fourth Test hundred. Their aggressive approach kept Pakistan on the back foot. Even after his dismissal, South Africa’s momentum never waned. Marco Jansen, struggling with form all year, made a statement with a whirlwind 57 off 42 balls. His innings included six fours and three sixes.

The Proteas added 137 runs in the afternoon session alone, dusting the Pakistan bowlers. The visitors, despite their best efforts, could not make any significant inroads in a flattened wicket.

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