Pretoria Capitals have named Keshal Maharaj as their new captain for the upcoming SA20 season, the franchise announced on Friday (December 12). Maharaj, who captained the Durban Super Giants last season, replaces Rilee Rossouw at the helm.
Rossouw, released ahead of the auction, was picked up by Jo’burg Super Kings for R500,000. Meanwhile, Maharaj was secured by the Capitals for R1.7 million.
In a statement confirming the appointment, the Capitals highlighted Maharaj’s extensive leadership pedigree:
“Maharaj brings a wealth of international experience 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, his tactical understanding and consistency make him an invaluable addition in this role.”
Maharaj is also the second-highest wicket-taker among spinners in SA20 history, with 27 wickets in 33 matches for the Super Giants.
The Capitals made significant changes off the field as well, bringing in Sourav Ganguly as head coach in place of Jonathan Trott, with Shaun Pollock appointed as assistant coach.
Entering the September auction with the largest purse (R32.5 million), the Capitals spent R16.5 million on star acquisition Dewald Brevis. Other major signings included 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).
Sherfane Rutherford and Will Jacks were retained as pre-signed players, while Andre Russell joined as the franchise’s wild card pick.
