Keshav Maharaj is hoping Yorkshire’s batsmen can have a stellar third day against Surrey at Scarborough to put the White Rose on course for an impressive win over the champions.
The South African left-arm spinner, making his debut as the county’s short-term overseas signing, took three wickets as Surrey were bowled out for 362 in reply to 327, gaining a lead of 35.
Maharaj praised Yorkshire’s bowlers for their response to Mark Stoneman’s century during the first half of a day which ended with six wickets falling after tea. Ben Coad also struck three times.
He said: “The day went in waves. The first session, we bowled really well and started well with Duanne (Olivier).
“We probably let it slip towards the end of the session but roped it back in after tea nicely.
“We’d probably say they’ve got 20 runs too many, but we did bring it back nicely.
“This is my first game in three or four months, so I was really happy with how it came out. There’s still a few things I can get better at, but I’m just happy.
“There’s massive drift with the wind, but there’s also some footmarks to the left-handers, and we saw a few turn. I’m hoping the pitch will deteriorate, but only time will tell.
“Stoneman didn’t give any chances until we got him out. He showed how to bat on that wicket. There’s enough opportunity to score if you knuckle down. Hats off to him.
“Hopefully we can put Surrey to the test tomorrow and post a winning score.”
