Captain Kesh leads Proteas as they begin world champion status-defence

TO be the best, you have to beat the best. That logic has now put a target on the backs of the Proteas following their victory in the World Test Championship final.

- JEHRAN NAIDOO

As they embark on their first series as World Champions of the Test format, stand in captain Captain Keshav Maharaj said it is important that they defend their honour against neighbours Zimbabwe.

The first Test will commence this morning in Bulawayo, where the Proteas have taken with them a mix of youth and experience. There’s also a few young guns on the Zimbabwe bench that have prompted a shift in preparations on the part of the Proteas, Maharaj explained.

Today’s test against Zimbabwe will be Maharaj’s first time as Proteas captain in a Test match.