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South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad triggered a major controversy on Saturday after using the term “grovel” while describing his team’s intent against India during the second Test in Guwahati. The remark, made after South Africa seized full control on Day 4, left several journalists stunned and quickly drew criticism from Indian cricketing greats.
Although the word itself is not inherently racist, it carries heavy historical baggage in cricket due to its association with racial tension and colonial undertones, making Conrad’s usage particularly sensitive.
Why the word “grovel” is controversial?
The term became infamous during the 1976 England tour of the West Indies, when England captain Tony Greig, a white South African-born cricketer, provocatively declared that his team would make the West Indies “grovel.” The comment was widely condemned as racially insensitive, especially given the political climate and historical power dynamics of the time.
Since then, “grovel” has remained a charged word within cricketing discourse, often viewed as disrespectful when used toward teams with diverse racial or colonial histories.
SA head coach says he was “stealing a phrase”
Speaking after South Africa set India a mammoth target of over 500 runs, Conrad doubled down on his team’s aggressive mindset.
“We wanted India to spend as much time on their feet out in the field. We wanted them to really grovel – to steal a phrase – bat them completely out the game and then say to them, well, come and survive on the last day,” he told reporters.
The coach’s casual use of the term immediately stirred debate, with many questioning the need to invoke such a phrase while on the verge of a historic victory.
Anil Kumble expresses disappointment at Conrad’s comment
Former India captain and spin legend Anil Kumble expressed shock at Conrad’s remarks, urging humility from the South African camp.
“There’s history attached to this. Fifty years ago, an England captain used the same phrase against the great West Indies side, and we all know what followed,” Kumble said on Star Sports India.
“South Africa may have won the series, but when you’re on top, your choice of words matters. Humility is most important at such times.”
Kumble noted that he expected better judgment from a seasoned coach representing a team on the brink of a landmark Test series win in India.
“I certainly didn’t expect this from the coach or the support staff. When you’re winning, the first thing is to stay humble, not say something like this at a press conference.”
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Cheteshwar Pujara believes Conrad’s remark will “fire up” Team India
India batter Cheteshwar Pujara also weighed in, acknowledging that Conrad’s remarks would sting the dressing room but could motivate the team heading into the final day.
“It does fire up the team, but it will hurt as well. I don’t think that statement will go down well,” Pujara said.
“The best way to respond is to fight – bat three sessions, build partnerships. We’re in this position because we haven’t played good cricket, and the answer must come with the bat, not with words.”
With India facing an uphill battle to save the Test, Conrad’s comments have injected fresh emotional intensity into an already heated contest.
As both teams prepare for the decisive final day, all eyes will be on how Team India responds on the field to a remark that has reopened historical wounds and stirred modern-day cricketing pride.
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