Paul Adams has replied to reports of him being wanted to be replaced as Cape Cobras coach after ‘falling out’ with some of the franchise’s players.

Earlier this week the South African Cricketers’ Association’s Andrew Breetzke confirmed to Club Cricket SA ‘the majority of the contracted Cobras players have lodged a formal grievance. The grievance relates to a material breakdown in their relationship with the coach.’

The former Proteas joined the Cobras in 2012 and enjoyed plenty of success over the next three seasons, before a trophy-less campaign last season.

The 2015-16 season saw an emphatic One-Day Cup final defeat, a semi-final exit in the T20 Challenge and fourth place in the Sunfoil Series, with just three wins in 10 matches.

‘I was made aware of complaints after last season was completed,’ Adams told the Cape Times. ‘I am a young coach and always willing to learn and take these observations on board. I wish it was communicated to me during the season so that it could be addressed.

‘I have undergone a leadership course during the winter and I’m confident of the way forward. The sun is out and the boys are outdoors training in the nets. That’s my focus at the moment, to get my players ready for the new season.’

Ashwell Prince’s appointment as assistant coach of the Cobras has sparked rumours that he could potentially replace Adams heading into the new season.