Cape Town - Former Proteas spinner Paul Adams says they should be wary of the exploits of off-spinner Graeme Swann when they tackle England in a three-Test series starting there in July.

Last week Swann claimed a match haul of 10 wickets as England roared to a series-levelling win over Sri Lanka in Colombo.

He was also instrumental in England's last tour to South Africa in 2009/2010 when he took 21 wickets in four Tests to help his side draw the series.

Adams predicts a "fantastic series" but is wary of especially Swann. "The South African batsmen would need to be alert to counter especially Swann. He is one of the best spinners in the world and is on song at present.

"He has the necessary skills to be a threat on any surface," Adams told Die Burger.

"Gogga", as he was popularly dubbed during his playing days, also sees English quickie, James Anderson, as another potential threat to the Proteas. "His ability to swing the ball is always a danger."

However, Adams feels the Proteas' bowlers will pose as strong a threat as their English counterparts.

"I believe the inclusion of Vernon Philander gives the Protea bowling-attack a huge boost.

"I also agree with the decision to allow Vernon to play for Somerset over the next two months. It's clever to let him become accustomed to English conditions and especially the Duke ball," said Adams.

Philander claimed match figures of 7/81 in his first match for Somerset against Middlesex last week.

England are currently the No 1 ranked Test team, with the Proteas in second spot. This makes for an interesting series, with the winner claiming the added bonus of being the best team in the world.