Leicestershire County Cricket Club has officially signed South African spinner Keshav Maharaj as they prepare for their return to Division One of the County Championship. The definitive 35-year-old cricketer recently led South Africa to an upset victory over Australia in the World Test final this past June. He’ll be with the Foxes for at least the first four months of the 2026 season.
Maharaj certainly arrives with a lot of experience under his belt, having taken 313 wickets in 152 matches for the Proteas. He’d enjoyed a remarkable debut season in the County Championship. His last couple seasons have seen him rack up 55 wickets in just eight games for Lancashire and Yorkshire in 2019.
Maharaj’s signing makes him the second overseas player confirmed to be heading to Leicestershire. The team are busy building their squad for life in Division One after their 22-year absence ended last season. Claude Henderson, the club’s director of cricket, expressed enthusiasm about Maharaj’s addition to the team.
“Alongside his exceptional cricketing abilities, he will bring vast international experience, leadership skills, and a huge passion for the game,” – Claude Henderson
Maharaj joined Middlesex earlier this year for a stint in county cricket. Unfortunately, he was forced to withdraw due to an Achilles tendon injury. He is leaving all of that behind him now and focused on making his mark for Leicestershire. He emphasized his excitement about playing county cricket and the benefits it brings to his game.
“I love playing county cricket. The competitiveness helps you adapt and improve your game, so I can’t wait to get stuck into that challenge and hopefully put in some big performances for the Foxes.” – Keshav Maharaj
There’s no question about Maharaj’s confidence in the team’s direction and focus. He lauded what his new teammates had done by the end of last year, and their promise heading into next year.
“The boys have done some exceptional work throughout the season and have built some great momentum heading into next year,” – Keshav Maharaj
Captain Peter Handscomb recently re-signed to a new one-year deal. Leicestershire are now well placed to build upon their cup heroics and mount a serious challenge in Division One. It will be vital that Maharaj’s leadership and experience guide the way. The Foxes hope they will soon find themselves once again competing to be England’s best club side.
Leave a Reply