South African spinner Keshav Maharaj made headlines again, this time for his unique choice of music to walk to. When he walked out to bat during the second Test against Pakistan at Newlands, the stadium DJ played the song “Ram Siya Ram”.
Why “Ram Siya Ram” plays for 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 descent in Durban, Maharaj wears his cultural roots with pride. No wonder he feels a connection to the song.
Maharaj has already shared the story behind this song in an interview during the SA20 league. “I once asked a 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 game. During South Africa’s limited-overs series against India, fans noticed the same devotional tune echoing through the stadium. Even Indian captain KL Rahul was curious. During the test, he asked Maharaj about the repetitive song. However, the left-arm spinner maintained a mystery then.
A spiritual moment on the pitch
The moment attracted more attention during the second Test in Cape Town. As Maharaj walked out to bat, the familiar sounds of “Ram Siya Ram” filled the air. The sight of Virat Kohli standing with his arms crossed while the song was playing added to the unique scene.
Cricket matches are rarely associated with religious music. However, for Maharaj, it is a ritual that combines religion and sport. “Respect for culture and religion is vital,” Maharaj said. “Hearing that song in the stadium gives me inner peace.”
Babar Azam gets into a deep conversation with Marc Jansen during the second Test at Newlands
Excellent performance by South Africa at Newlands
While Maharaj’s walk-up song grabbed attention, real fireworks took place on the field. South Africa dominated Pakistanposting 566 for 7—their highest home total in four years. Ryan Rickelton led the charge with a career-best 259. His innings, which fell short of Stephen Fleming’s 262 at Newlands, was a masterclass in patience and power.
Kyle Verreynne, continuing his impressive form, brought up his fourth Test hundred. His aggressive approach kept Pakistan at a standstill. Even after his dismissal, South Africa’s momentum never waned. Marco Jansen, who has struggled with form all year, made a statement with a blistering 57 off 42 balls. His innings included six fours and three sixes.
The Proteas added 137 runs in the afternoon session alone, grinding Pakistan’s bowlers into dust. The visitors, despite their efforts, could not make a significant breakthrough on the flattened goalpost.
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