Emotional Maharaj dreaming of Lord's success for South Africa

And while Maharaj knows there is still work ahead before his team can celebrate, the left-armer believes victory in London will prove a decisive moment cricket in his country.

"It would mean everything," an emotional Maharaj told ICC Digital after South Africa reached 213/2 at stumps after three days of the Ultimate Test.

"Not just us (the players) out there or the fans here, but to everyone back home.

"To see how long it's taken for this country to hold some sort of ICC final trophy in their hands.

"I'm sorry, I'm getting a bit teary-eyed, but I think it would be a privilege to be a part of, because we faced a lot as our country.

"And to see it come, well not to get ahead, but to nearly get there is a very special feeling. So special."

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