Keshav Maharaj believes Shukri Conrad brings out the best in players

The Proteas under Conrad have reclaimed their spot on the international stage by qualifying for the ICC Test Championship final.

The spinner addressing the media on Thursday in Durban says the coach brings out the best in players.

"He's actually a mastermind if I may say, he really knows how to bring out the best in players and allows people to be themselves. I think you see from the way he picks his squads, picks his final 11. He gives everyone the platform to be themselves and their own identity and I think that's brought the changeroom together,” Maharaj said. “He's really brought that aspect back to the Proteas system that we've probably missed for a long time in terms of that togetherness and it's brilliant to see and yeah, it will be more rewarding for someone of his statue and calibre to win this championship.

“He knew me before I knew him from my youngster days but I got to know him, I got to work with him and he's a brilliant man, he's an honest man but like I said it's uncanny how he brings the best in you in his own unique way."

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Keshav will lead Durban Super Giants in the 3rd edition of the Betway SA20 and he has shared his ambition to claim the title as they kick off their quest against Pretoria Capitals.

"Yeah, I don't think I wanna lead into the final, I wanna win it this year. At the end of the day yes, the objective is to win and we have the bigger picture in hand but it's about the process behind it,” he explained.

 “I think to see the fans and crowds of Durban and how they've come and supported us in huge numbers. Not just at the stadium but to be welcomed in public the way we have been, it's the least we can do as a unit for them.

“And I think the display of cricket that we gave them last year, hopefully, we can bring a little bit more excitement to that and who knows maybe the first game of next season would be here with the trophy parading."