Wayne Roberts’ SA swansong: A second Professional Bowls Association title

Cheryl Waterman

Sitting across from Wayne Roberts in what could be his last interview as a South African competitor, one cannot help but be struck by the composed confidence the World Bowls No 4 ranker conveys.

As we talk, the role of that composure in the unforgettable climax of the 2025 Fairtree Professional Bowls Association (PBA) final comes rushing back – an edge-of-your-seat, three-end tie-breaker that left spectators breathless.

End one: Roberts delivers with precision, drawing close to the jack. End two: Mathews Phiri counters, holding shot.

The final end – Roberts is holding and each bowler has one bowl left.

Phiri steps up, plays a masterful shot, and rests on Roberts’ bowl to take the advantage.

The Hillcrest BC stalwart, standing on the mat, knows what’s at stake – his second PBA title, R70,000 in prize money and a coveted ticket to Hopton-on-Sea for the 2026 Potters World Indoor Bowls Championship.

Durbanville BC falls into complete silence. Roberts delivers. And then: eruption!

Cheers ring out as his last bowl cleanly removes Phiri’s shot and stays to hold two. A moment of sheer brilliance, the mark of a true champion.

Reflecting on his South African career, Roberts recalls how, at 18 years old, his father finally convinced him to join his parents on the greens at Parkhill BC.

It was there that Dougie Bashford recognised his potential and encouraged him to move to Stella Park BC, where John Connellan took him under his wing.

Roberts acknowledges the pivotal role both men played in shaping his early development.

Having settled in the Upper Highway area, Roberts transitioned to Hillcrest BC, where he found unwavering support from their members – a community he deeply appreciates.

When asked about the highlight of his career, his response was immediate: 2023, the year he won the Fours Championship at the Bowls South Africa Nationals alongside Dougie Bashford, Roger Boulle and Nic Horne.

That same year, Bowls SA awarded him his Proteas colours.

Looking ahead, Roberts is optimistic about the future of young bowlers in the Port Natal District, noting that exceptional talent is emerging.

How does he advise these rising stars? Find an experienced mentor to partner with in district and national tournaments, and seize the opportunity to enter PBA qualifying events across South Africa.

Competing with and against the sport’s elite will be invaluable for their growth and success.

But now, as he looks at his future, what does Wayne Roberts anticipate as his emigration to New Zealand draws nearer?

Seeking a more stable future for their daughter, two-year-old Chayne, Wayne and his wife Chantal plan to settle in Auckland, where he intends joining Brown’s Bay Bowling Club.

Roberts aims to sharpen his game on smoother, faster New Zealand greens and indoor venues in preparation for Potters.

With limited experience on indoor surfaces, he understands the intricacies of the game at this level.

However, with no dedicated indoor venues in South Africa to fine-tune his tactics, this move provides the ideal opportunity to adapt to the pace and precision required for top-tier indoor competition.