As the Bangladesh Emerging and South Africa Emerging sides wrapped up a competitive One Day series in Rajshahi, we sat down with former South African international and current spin bowling coach, Paul Adams, to reflect on the tour, young talent, and his vision for the future of South African cricket in an exclusive interview.
Paul, great to have you back in Bangladesh. How has the experience been this time around?
Thanks, it’s been great being back. We brought a strong, young South Africa Emerging side here, and while we didn’t end up on the winning side, the boys fought really hard. The conditions have been hot and challenging, but that’s part of the learning curve. It’s been a fantastic experience to kick off the One Day season like this.
All three matches were closely contested. How would you assess the performances?
We competed well. The first One Dayer was a real battle, the second we just managed to edge through, and the third we fell slightly short. But again, both teams were evenly matched, which made for some really good cricket. It’s been valuable for our players to be in those pressure situations.
Were there any standout players for you from either side?
From the Bangladesh Emerging camp, there were a few who impressed— the captain (Akbar Ali) was consistent with the bat and led well. As for us, one of our middle-order batters Connor (Esterhuizen), showed great composure in the two games he played. (Dian) Forrester was hitting the ball cleanly too. And young (Nqobani) Mokoena, still in the U19s, really caught the eye with his pace. He bowled some sharp spells and chipped in with the bat late in the innings. He’s one to watch.
You’ve been involved with the South Africa Emerging set-up for two years now. How has your coaching journey been?
It’s been really rewarding. I love working with the younger generation—helping them grow, exposing them to new environments, and teaching them that the game isn’t always played the same way around the world. I’ve also had some opportunities with the Proteas, like being with them at the World Cup in Dubai, which has been amazing. But what matters most is that these players leave these tours having learnt something—about cricket, about adapting, and about culture.
Do you see yourself taking up a coaching role with the Proteas in the near future?
I enjoy the role I’m playing right now. There’s satisfaction in helping young players develop and showing them how to take their game further. I do get called up occasionally to assist with the senior side, which keeps me involved at the top level too. Right now, it’s about making sure the players I work with are better equipped for the demands of international cricket.
Looking ahead, the Proteas are in the World Test Championship final against Australia. How do you see that contest shaping up?
It’s going to be a great battle. Both sides have been consistent to reach the final, and it’s at Lord’s—an iconic venue. Australia are always tough, and they’ve got a strong bowling line-up, but so do we. If our players get through the IPL fit, I think we can really take the game to them. It’s going to be fire versus fire, especially in the bowling department.
How’s your off-field experience been in Bangladesh this time? Any favourite local dishes or places you’ve visited?
(Laughs) Honestly, it’s been mostly between the hotel and the ground. But I always enjoy the local food—the teas, the mangoes, the coconut water—it keeps us refreshed in this heat. The hospitality here is top-notch, as always.
You’re heading to Chattogram next. Any special memories there?
Yes, actually—last time I played in Chattogram, I took 10 wickets in a Test match. So it brings back great memories. The stadium has that classic feel to it—old-school, not modernised with floodlights or seating yet, but full of character.
Do you think venues like Rajshahi should be renovated and brought into regular international rotation?
Absolutely. The crowds here have been fantastic. Many of our players back home don’t play in front of such big, passionate crowds at domestic level. It’s a great experience for them. The curator here deserves credit too—the pitches for all three matches were excellent. They made for competitive, high-scoring, action-packed games. That’s what you want in a tour like this.
Final thoughts heading into the last stretch of the tour?
We’re excited for the matches ahead. Every game is a learning opportunity. The players have embraced the conditions and challenges, and I think this tour will play a big role in their growth
. That’s what it’s all about.