Talks aimed at resolving the dispute between senior players and the head coach of the Cape Cobras, Paul Adams, have been extended for another 14 days.

The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), Cape Cobras players and members of the board of the Cape Cobras franchise have been appearing at a conciliation process meeting held at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in Cape Town, following an open revolt by players against their head coach.

They sent an official complaint to the Cobras board, but after an investigation, Adams was confirmed in his position, although he was given Ashwell Prince as assistant coach and the experienced former South African swing bowler Alan Dawson as convenor of the selection committee.

The senior players remain dissatisfied, saying there had been a ‘material breakdown in their relationship.’

‘Some pretty forthright discussions took place between the parties at today’s meeting before the Commissioner,’ said Tony Irish, chief executive of SACA. ‘It may well be the first time that players and board members have exchanged such frank views on this issue.’

It was agreed that the conciliation process be extended by 14 days until November 1, 2016 to give SACA, the players and the franchise an opportunity to try to agree a clear process to further monitor, assess and address the situation on the ground.

After the board’s decision, Adams felt the corner had been turned, saying: ‘I respect the players and have taken the learnings from this past winter to heart. I feel we will have a better understanding of each other.’

But the Cobras have not responded on the field, starting the Sunfoil Series in disappointing form with two losses. The situation has caused a rift in the team, with younger players saying they came under pressure to choose sides.

Photo: Chris Ricco/BackpagePix