SHAMSI THE MAGICIAN HAPPY TO BRING 'GREAT VIBES' TO BOLAND PARK

The Paarl Royals had to wait a long time for their first Cape derby victory over their neighbours MI Cape Town.

The banter between the teams was starting to ramp up, while the trolls on social networks were certainly amplifying the fact that the Royals were 3-0 behind on the scoreboard prior to Sunday’s clash at Boland Park.

Royals left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi was therefore elated that when it finally came, courtesy of a 59-run point win, it was in front of the passionate pink supporters.

READ MORE: Clinical Royals claim share of Cape Derby bragging rights

“We were disappointed with the way we played in Cape Town,” Shamsi said. “So, there was a little bit of extra motivation to beat our neighbours because they were 3-0 up on us.”

Shamsi has certainly developed into a cult hero at Boland Park. He has a special association with the fans, particularly due to his unique wicket-taking celebrations that range from taking off his boot to make a phone call and also his magic tricks.

The 33-year-old enjoys the fact that the Royals team management allows the players to express themselves.

“It comes from the top. They have created a relaxed environment for the team, so when you play in Paarl, you know what the people are about. They want great vibes,” he said.

“And I am a player that thrives on that. People take their time out to come and watch, so you want to entertain because when the people are having fun, I am also having fun.”

Boland Park has also developed into a fortress for the Royals this season as the Betway SA20 table-toppers remain unbeaten on their home ground.

Shamsi feels this is due to their understanding of the conditions and then being able to execute a finely-tuned gameplan.

“We know our batters are going to grind out a score and then it's our job as bowlers to do the job," he said.

“And in reverse, when we go to Joburg and Pretoria, it's the turn of the batters to take it on.

“There is no pressure on me to take wickets. It helps you to stay calm as a player. We have very clear game plans. Very clear instructions. We just need to execute.

“We know in Paarl, the conditions are a bit tough to bat in. But there’s nothing wrong with that.

“People think if the wicket is a little tough for batters, it's not a great wicket. Sometimes we need to let the batters also earn their money and give the bowlers something.”

Next up for for Royals is a trip to Wanderers on Wednesday to face Joburg Super Kings before returning home to Boland Park on Friday to face Durban's Super Giants. Buy you tickets now!