ADAMS: IT'S SPECIAL TO BE A HOMEGROWN PAARL ROYAL

Ferisco Adams was born to be a Paarl Royal. 

The 34-year-old all-rounder from Robertson in the Western Cape has played all his domestic cricket in the Boland region. 

He is also an integral part of the local community with many youngsters in the area, which is bedevilled by societal issues, viewing Adams as a role model. 

Adams’ journey hasn’t always been a smooth one either. Despite being a highly skilful cricketer, especially in the white-ball formats where has plenty of slower ball options and is incredibly cool under pressure during the death overs, Adams struggled to cement a regular place in the Cape Cobras’ domestic franchise team. 

But he continued to work hard behind the scenes, and whenever given the opportunity showcased his skills, thereby earning the nickname 'The Ice Man'. 

Adams’ Royals call-up for Betway SA20 Season 1 was therefore well deserved and the highlight of the all-rounder’s decade-long career.

“The first time we came together as the Paarl Royals family I could see that things were more professional. It is a big step up playing in this competition compared to our normal competitions during the domestic season. It is really nice to be a part of it. Definitely the best competition I’ve played in," he said.

“It was unbelievable sharing a dressing room with our international players, and also the overseas players. They are such loyal guys, and we could really learn from them.

“And it was just an unbelievable tournament. It was awesome to have all the crowds back in the ground, especially after the Covid situation, and playing in front of full stadiums everywhere we went.”

It was an added bonus for Adams when the Royals turned out at Boland Park because it afforded his nearest and dearest to come out and show their support.

“Paarl is my homeground. I’ve played all my cricket there. It’s great to see the people who know me and stay in Paarl, and that they can come and watch me play,” Adams said.

“My family doesn’t stay far from Boland Park too, so it was really special to see my family in the ground.”

Adams also feels that Betway SA20 will prove to be an aspirational tool for many young cricketers in the Boland region.

“This tournament had a big impact on young players. I feel it is a good stepping stone for younger players and pushing through in their careers and getting gigs all over the world and eventually even playing for South Africa,” he said.

Adams' Paarl Royals will begin their Betway SA20 campaign on Friday, 12 January 2024 with a home match against Pretoria Capitals.