South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj has played down the notion that his team has any distinct advantage from repeatedly playing on the same pitch, arguing that the ability to adapt quickly will determine the outcome when the Proteas take on the West Indies in a vital T20 World Cup Super 8 on Thursday 26 February.
The Proteas have contested all but one of their matches at the Narendra Modi Stadium so far. However, Maharaj claims that the different surface conditions neutralized any benefit from home each time.
“It’s nice not to be travelling, but pitch-wise, every game has been very different. The four games we’ve played here, the conditions have been different. I don’t see it as a big advantage. It’s about adapting sooner rather than later and focusing on execution,” Maharaj told a pre-match press conference.
STAY GROUNDED AFTER INDIA WINS
The Proteas approach Thursday’s game high on confidence after their comprehensive 76 run triumph over defending champions India in their opening Super 8 gamethough Maharaj insists that complacency does not occur.
“There was a real energy and buzz in the camp after beating probably the best side in the competition. But we’re not getting carried away. There’s still a lot of cricket to be played. It’s about dusting ourselves off, doing things better and focusing on the positives,” he said.
South Africa and West Indies secured victories in their first Super 8 contests India have one win and one loss. Zimbabwe suffered a defeat in their only match. A win on Thursday would bring both teams closer to confirming their semi-final spot.
RESPECTING WEST INDIAN FIRE POWER
Maharaj recognized the danger West Indies pose after they dominated Zimbabwe in their Super 8 opener. Having shared dressing rooms with many Caribbean players in T20 leagues, the spinner understands the threat their batting line-up poses.
“West Indies played an amazing game against Zimbabwe. It’s back to the drawing board. We know the danger they face from an explosive point of view. They have in-form batsmen and bowlers who fight them,” he said.
Maharaj emphasized that this match carries the same weight as their clash with India. “It’s a huge game at this stage of the tournament. If we get over the line, we’ll be in the semi-finals. West Indies have a way of turning up at these events, so they can’t be taken for granted.”
THE AFTERNOON START BRINGS A NEW CHALLENGE
Thursday is South Africa’s first day’s match of the tournament, which kicks off at 3pm. Maharaj stressed that quick feedback from the bowlers to wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock will be crucial in reading the conditions.
“Generally, bowlers give feedback early. Quinton is brilliant behind the stumps in assessing the conditions. It’s about communication, whether it’s slower balls, cutters or lengths, and then adjust accordingly,” he explained.
With a semi-final berth almost within reach, Maharaj stressed that precise planning and quick execution will make the difference against a team known for explosive batting.
South Africa will complete their Super 8 campaign against Zimbabwe on March 1.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
February 25, 2026
