Rajasthan Royals boost spinning stocks as Proteas tweaker Keshav Maharaj joins IPL franchise

Proteas spinner Keshav Maharaj will participate in his first-ever IPL tournament after the Rajasthan Royals added him to their squad on Thursday.

Maharaj replaces India's Prasidh Krishna, who was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury.

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The experienced left-arm spinner has represented South Africa in 50 Tests, 44 ODIs and 27 T20Is, taking 225 international wickets for the Proteas.

Royals Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara believes Maharaj's experience will be a major asset. 

"Keshav is a great addition to our squad with his quality and understanding of the game," said Sangakarra.

"He is hugely experienced and an outstanding individual off the field as well.  "His addition will further improve the depth and quality of our squad, and we look forward to having him contribute with his performances," Sangakarra added.

Maharaj joins up with two other South Africans in the Royals squad - Nandre Burger and Donovan Ferreira.