Keshav Maharaj named captain of Pretoria Capitals

Keshal Maharaj has been named captain of Pretoria Capitals for the upcoming season of SA20, the franchise announced on Friday (December 12). Maharaj, who led Durban Super Giants last season, replaces Rilee Rossouw as the skipper of the Capitals.

Rossouw, who was released by the team ahead of the auction, moved to Jo'burg Super Kings at a price of R500,000 while Maharaj was roped in by Capitals for a sum of R1.7 million.

On Maharaj's appointment as captain, the Capitals said in a statement: "Maharaj brings a wealth of international pedigree across formats, along with a proven track record of guiding teams with composure, clarity and intent.

"Having captained South Africa in white-ball cricket and served as a senior figure within the national setup for several years, Maharaj's leadership experience, tactical understanding and consistency make him an invaluable addition in this role. His presence strengthens the balance and direction of the Pretoria Capitals squad as the team heads into the new season."

Among spinners, Maharaj is the second highest wicket-taker in the SA20, with 27 wickets in the 33 matches he played for Super Giants. Ahead of the auction, Capitals also announced a change in the support staff with Sourav Ganguly replacing Jonathan Trott as the head coach, with Shaun Pollock joining him as assistant coach.

The Capitals, who had the biggest purse (R32.5 million) in the auction in September, spent as much as R16.5 million to acquire the services of Dewald Brevis.

Connor Esterhuizen (R3.2 million), Lizaad Williams (R2.4 million), Lungi Ngidi (R2.3 million), Bryce Parsons (R1.9 million), Saqib Mahmood (R1.5 million) and Craig Overton (R1 million) and were the other big buys. Sherfane Rutherford and Will Jacks were their pre-signed players and Andre Russell was their wild card pick.