World Cup 2023: South African all-rounder Keshav Maharaj spotted with ‘Om’ sign on his bat

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Netherlands’ stunning performance
Keshav Maharaj’s religious bat tattoo

In a thrilling encounter on October 16, Tuesday, at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, the Netherlands‘ cricket team emerged as triumphant underdogs, defeating South Africa by a commanding margin of 38 runs. This resounding victory in Match 15 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 signified a historic milestone for the Dutch side, securing their first triumph in the ongoing fiercely competitive ICC event.

Netherlands’ stunning performance

In the beginning, a two-hour rain delay led to a reduced 43-over match. After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, South Africa exploited seam-friendly conditions, initially rattling the Dutch opening pair, Vikramjit Singh and Max O’Dowd.

The Netherlands found themselves in dire straits at 140/7 in the 34th over, with wickets falling regularly. However, a remarkable partnership of 64 runs for the eighth wicket between Roelof van der Merwe (29 off 19 balls) and skipper Scott Edwards (unbeaten 78 off 69 balls) brought them back into the game. Then, Edwards, along with Aryan Dutt (unbeaten 23 off nine balls), forged another crucial partnership of 41 runs for the 9th wicket, eventually leading their side to a decent total of 245/8 in 50 overs.

Despite satisfactory starts from skipper Temba Bavuma and Quinton de Kock, South Africa crumbled under pressure and bowled out for 207 with one ball remaining. Logan van Beek, with three wickets, led the bowling attack, supported by van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren, and Bas de Leede, who claimed two wickets each.

Also read: World Cup 2023 – South Africa captain Temba Bavuma opens up on shocking defeat against the Netherlands

Keshav Maharaj’s religious bat tattoo

In the midst of the high-octane cricketing showdown, spectators and cricket enthusiasts were quick to spot a profound and symbolic detail incorporated into South African cricketer Keshav Maharaj‘s equipment. Adorning his cricket bat was the sacred ‘Om’ symbol, a significant emblem in Hinduism and several other Indian religions.

Significantly, the versatile all-rounder made a substantial impact during the match by smashing a notable 40 runs and securing a crucial wicket.