Veteran Maharaj looks forward to the Australia challenge

The 35-year-old returns to competitive cricket after a prolonged break, and is raring to take on Pat Cummins’ men in the Ultimate Test. Maharaj has 22 wickets against Australia in the format, at an average of 45 in conditions that don’t have the best support for spinners.

Maharaj has also played a big role in South Africa's journey to the final, with 40 wickets from eight games in this cycle of the World Test Championship.

Despite the break, Maharaj’s focus remains on overcoming the Australians.

“Having had the break, I am excited to get back together with the boys. Guys have been playing all over, in different competitions, but now we have some time to really get close and focus.

“I have been working hard on my bowling and conditioning, and I think we needed a mental break. But you don’t need any motivation to play a final against Australia.”

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