Seaford College influence wins praise from Sussex

School's role in developing fast bowler Nantes Oosthuizen recognised

According to director of cricket, Chris Adams, Seaford College’s cricket programme is “inclusive, it's supportive, it's fun, it's vibrant and if you are good enough to go on and be a professional, then it's also an environment that can deliver that for you”.

An example of the latter was when Sussex signed fast bowler Nantes Oosthuizen before the 2025 season, the influence of Seaford College and Adams, was mentioned. Adams, pictured, was impressed by his potential and physical attributes and encouraged him to join the school for Sixth Form.  

Inspired by the school’s ethos – “we try and do our best for every student in and outside of the classroom” – he joined, had an “amazing experience”, including spells in which his coach saw him “terrify some schoolboy cricketers”. When he left the club and the Surrey pathway, Adams recommended him to Sussex director of cricket, Paul Farbarce, and he impressed enough at a trail to sign a rookie deal, which was extended for the 2026 season.

Adams brings international experience both as a player and coach to his role at Seaford. He has noticed a shift in talent identification for players with a “point of difference” but he still instils that “it's not always that important how, it's how many” in terms of runs and wickets. 

When he joined, Adams was keen to incorporate “all the elements of the professional world” into his programme. But there was also a realisation that it should incorporate all levels of ability.

“It didn't take me very long to realise that I had to adapt and be very flexible with my approach because 90 per cent of the students that participate in cricket actually don't want to be professional cricketers,” he explained. “It's only a small 10 per cent or so at the top in each year group where you might ask the question, does anybody want to go on and be a professional cricketer? There are only a few hands go up. 

“There are layers in terms of how we deliver cricket at the school. There's the complete recreational element to it. The boys and the girls that just want to play cricket because they enjoy it and they want to experience it and develop their game.”

The school have also recently brought in former Southern Vipers spinner Charlotte Taylor to lead the girls section of the winter programme and, according to Adams, her impact has been “nothing short of fabulous”.

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