IND vs SA 2022: Would not call it a second-string team – Keshav Maharaj on the Shikhar Dhawan-led side

South African spinner Keshav Maharaj believes India has so much talent that they can field four to five international sides. With regular players being part of the T20 World Cup squad, India has picked a B-team for the ODI series against South Africa. However, Maharaj said he would not call it a second-string team.

Many young Indian players are rising through the ranks after performing well at the domestic circuit and the IPL. India has a pool of young Indian players and they have been given ample opportunities at the top level. The young players have also grabbed their chances and thus India has a potent bench strength.

“I would not call it a second-string Indian side. India has so much talent that they can field four-five proper international sides,” Maharaj said on the eve of the second and penultimate ODI here.

“Having said that, a lot of the guys have IPL and have international experience. There are world-class performers out there.”

On the other hand, Keshav Maharaj has impressed with his performances in the recent past. The orthodox left-arm spinner was at his best in the first ODI as he scalped one wicket and conceded 21 wickets in the eight overs he bowled.

“It’s always nice to play well against India. Obviously, you want to prepare yourself. They have a world-class batting lineup,” Maharaj said.

Meanwhile, Maharaj backed his spin bowling partner Tabraiz Shamsi, who was taken for 89 runs in the eight overs he bowled in the first ODI. Shamsi was put under pressure by Sanju Samson in the last over when India needed 30 runs.

“I don’t think he really had a poor outing. Figures don’t exactly tell you the true reflection of the way someone bowled.

“The Indian batters had to take on someone and unfortunately it was him on the day. I thought he held his nerve really well at the back-end,” Maharaj said.

“Obviously, picked up crucial wickets to open up. I don’t think his form is a concern. It’s only a matter of time till he bounces back. We know what he is capable of.”