The 31-year-old, who has spent his entire domestic career in KwaZulu-Natal after starting out with the KZN Inland and the Dolphins, brings a wealth of experience to Potchefstroom - a city that holds special significance in his cricketing journey.

Dupavillon’s story with Potchefstroom dates back to 2013, when he made his first-class debut as a teenager for KZN Inland against North West. Seven years later, he returned to the same venue - the JB Marks Oval - to earn his Proteas debut in the third One-Day International against Australia, where he impressed with figures of 1/21 in six tidy overs.

Daryn Dupavillon celebrating the wicket of the then Knights captain Aubrey Swanepoel - Charlé Lombard

His connection to the city runs even deeper. It was in Potchefstroom where he earned SA Schools honours, and now, more than a decade on, he could potentially bring up his 100th first-class match in Dragons colours - a fitting full-circle moment in an already accomplished career.

Dupavillon told OFM Sport that remaining in Division 1 cricket was the decisive factor behind his move. While he thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Tuskers, their relegation ultimately forced his hand.

“It felt like unfinished business leaving Tuskers. We didn’t quite have the year that we wanted, and with the side we had, we definitely expected more,” he said.

“I’ve been in KZN my whole career, so the move to Tuskers was an easy one after my time with the Dolphins. But unfortunately, it just wasn’t the season we had hoped for.

“The main draw for me was staying in Division One. I still believe I’m among the best bowlers in the country - my performances back that up - so it made sense to remain at that level.

“After weighing up my options, North West felt like the best fit. They’re a competitive side with a strong culture, and that’s exactly what you want as a player.”

North West Dragons coach, Craig Alexander, is a former teammate of Daryn Dupavillon at the Dolphins - Morgan Piek

The move also reunites Dupavillon with Dragons head coach Craig Alexander, a former Dolphins teammate - something the fast bowler is particularly excited about.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Craig again. We spent a big part of our careers together at the Dolphins, so there’s a strong sense of familiarity,” he added.

“This past season was tough. It’s probably the first time in a while that I’ve genuinely loved my cricket and had so much fun playing, but we found ourselves on the losing side far too often - and as professionals, you play to win.”

Daryn Dupavillon on debut for Derbyshire in the 204 Blast in England - Cricinfo

The emotional pull of Potchefstroom isn’t lost on him either.

“It definitely feels like a full-circle moment. I made my first-class debut here, my Proteas debut here, and even made SA Schools here. With my 100th game on the horizon, it would be incredibly special to reach that milestone in the same place.

“At this stage of my career, it’s never easy leaving a province, but there are familiar faces in the setup, which makes the transition a lot easier.

“I’m really excited about this new chapter and looking forward to creating more special memories with North West over the next two years.”

Daryn Dupavillon earned his SA Schools call-up in Potchefstroom in 2012 - Cricinfo

Dupavillon arrives with an impressive record: 282 first-class wickets in 97 matches, including best figures of 7/24 in an innings and 11/104 in a match. He has claimed nine four-wicket hauls and 12 five-wicket hauls, along with two 10-wicket match performances - a testament to his consistency and strike power.

A proud product of Maritzburg College - the same school that produced David Miller - Dupavillon has also featured for the Durban Heat, Durban Super Giants, Pretoria Capitals, Derbyshire, and the Trinbago Knight Riders - underlining a career that has spanned both local and international stages.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport