Adams' position as Cobras coach in doubt after formal grievance

Paul Adams' position as Cobras' head coach is under threat after 14 of the franchise's contracted players lodged a formal grievance against him. The players, none of whom has been named, claim there has been a "material breakdown in their relationship," according to Andrew Breetzke, head of player services and advocacy at the South African Cricketers' Association. The board and the players will meet on Monday to take a final decision on Adams' future.

The complaint against Adams was laid at the end of the previous season - the first in eight seasons that Cobras went without a trophy - and pertains to Adams' man-management skills, and tactical and technical knowledge. Adams was aware of the situation and underwent a leadership course over the winter period in an attempt to address any shortcomings.

However, player unhappiness had not subsided by the time pre-season training began, and the Western Cape Cricket board convened a five-man independent panel to investigate. They recommended the appointment of a mediator which WCC accepted. Former national mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton was tasked with the job, and he submitted a report to WCC which was discussed at a board meeting on Thursday night, but no resolution was reached. Instead, Adams will have to wait until Monday before there is certainty over his future.

Adams declined to respond when ESPNcricinfo attempted to contact him.

Adams, who has been in charge of the Cobras since 2012 and has guided them to five domestic titles, was recently given a new two-year contract. He has also had his support staff beefed up with the addition of former internationals Ashwell Prince, who was appointed his assistant, and Alan Dawson, the new convener of selectors. Whether that will be enough to pacify the players is unclear. The Cape Argus reported that several senior players may opt to leave the Cobras if Adams is retained.