RISING STAR South Africa's Kwena Maphaka (R) celebrates the caught and bowled dismissal of Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan (not pictured) during the second one day international (ODI) cricket match between South Africa and Pakistan at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town on December 19, 2024. Picture: Rodger Bosch / AFP
Image: Rodger Bosch / AFP
It’s of no small significance that teen sensation Kwena Maphaka has worked closely with Paul Adams.
Adams works as Cricket SA’s high performance bowling coach, and has played a big role in the development of rising star Maphaka.
Earlier this month, 18-year-old Maphaka became the youngest-ever player to make his Test debut for South Africa in the New Year’s clash against Pakistan in Cape Town.
The previous youngest, of course was Adams back in 1995. After Maphaka became the new record holder at 18 years, 270 days, Adams was one of the first people to congratulate the left-arm quick bowler.
"It feels incredible. Paul Adams, who coached me, sent me a heartfelt message congratulating me,” said Maphaka.
“I know how much that record meant to him, and now it means the world to me. I’ll cherish it forever.”
In fact, Maphaka has already made his bow in the other two formats over the last four months as he is clearly earmarked for the Proteas’ long-term plans.
"It’s been a really special summer for me. It’s crazy how quickly things have moved and how much my life has changed. But I’m keeping my feet on the ground, striving to learn and achieve success.”
With Maphaka already able to bowl in excess of 150km per hour, his partnership with Kagiso Rabada is already hotly-anticipated.
"KG is like an older brother and mentor to me. We’ve worked closely together, and it’s great to see our relationship and careers grow. Hopefully, we’ll share the new ball in the future, maybe sooner than expected.”