Keshav Maharaj excited to captain Proteas against Zimbabwe

Maharaj will for the first time lead the national team when they take on Zimbabwe in the first of two Test matches in Bulawayo starting this weekend. 

Sitting on 199 wickets in the longest format – and likely to claim a 200th scalp in his 59th five-day fixture, the 35-year-old is ready to step in with regular captain Temba Bavuma ruled out due to a hamstring strain.

"Ja, obviously very fortunate to have the opportunity to captain my side once again, and in my favourite format of the game, and it's privilege," said Maharaj.

"In terms of my captaincy style, I'm a very laid-back captain and always open to advice, but I also allow the bowlers to come up with their own plans because I've always believed in growth.

"But I am someone that if I need to put my foot down, I will, but I just want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable so that they can execute their skill best on the field."

READ: Proteas name three debutants for first Zimbabwe Test

Maharaj also backed the three debutants Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, and Codi Yusuf to step up in the Test arena as he touched on their transition into the squad.

"They've fitted in very well, we have quite a nice culture which allows everyone to be themselves within our environment, and we know the skills they possess so it's just about feeling comfortable," he added.

"It's just to allow them to be themselves and express themselves on the cricket field, and yeah, they are a good bunch of characters with lots of fun and energy amongst them, and I'm really excited to see how they grow in this Test series going forward."