Keshav Maharaj in tears after South Africa's WTC Final win

When a team deprived of title glory for as many as 27 years finally claims the ultimate win, emotions are bound to run high. Saturday, June 14 marked the end of South Africa's trial at ICC events. The Proteas, led by Temba Bavuma, beat Australia by 5 wickets to win the WTC Final 2025 at Lord's. The win was powered by the defining century of Aiden Markram, who was rewarded as the Player of the Match at the conclusion of the all-important ICC clash. South Africa have become the third team to win the coveted Test Mace after New Zealand and Australia since the introduction of the WTC Final in 2021. Meanwhile, Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj rounded off the victory feeling with moist eyes.

Keshav Maharaj breaks into tear as South Africa end 27-year long trophy drought at WTC Final 2025

Tears welled up in the eyes of Keshav Maharaj eyes as South Africa finally broke a 27-year drought for an ICC title. As Kyle Verreynne punched the winning runs to the boundary, completing one of the most iconic moments in South African cricket, jubilation broke out in the dressing room. However, for Maharaj, the moment of the WTC Final victory was deeply emotional.

Keshav Maharaj breaks in tears as South Africa win the WTC Final 2025! 🏆🇿🇦

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In a post-match chat with former South Africa captain Graeme Smith, a stalwart of the game who never got his hands on an ICC trophy despite a storied career, Maharaj was visibly moved. He spoke with gratitude and emotion, emphasizing what the win meant to a nation that had long craved such glory. He credited the unwavering backing of South African supporters, calling their belief a vital force behind the team’s incredible journey.

"It's special, it's an honour to lift the cup for everyone out here and back home. Tears won't even describe what we feel right now. It's what the country's about, the unity among everyone in the last five days. We're very grateful for everyone here," Maharaj said. "For everyone here and back home, this is super special for us. We are very grateful as a team, as a nation," he added.

Reflecting further, Maharaj admitted he was prepared to walk out to bat if required and that he would have worn his emotions like armor. Thankfully, the scenario never arrived, thanks to the match-winning partnership between Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma. Chasing a challenging 282, the Proteas rode on a magnificent 147-run partnership between centurion Markram and captain Bavuma. Battling injury, Bavuma braved the conditions and the firepower of Australia’s fearsome bowling attack in the conclusive phase of the WTC Final.

"I think the emotions would've spurred me into the right direction had I got into bat. Thanks to everyone who's been supporting us, through adversity we've stood strong. We honour those who've come before us, may this be a stepping stone for greater things to come," Maharaj rounded off.