South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said on Wednesday that head coach Shukri Conrad would reflect on his controversial “grovel” remark, while also pointing out that emotions ran high. Certain players on both sides had crossed the line during the two-match series in India. Conrad’s comment — that South Africa wanted India to “really grovel” in the Guwahati Test — triggered immediate backlash because the word carries painful historical baggage.

It recalled Tony Greig’s infamous 1976 line about making the West Indies “grovel,” a phrase that still evokes strong memories in cricketing circles. Tamba Bavuma, speaking after his side completed a 408-run win to seal a 2-0 whitewash, said he had not yet discussed the wording with Conrad.

“Comments made by the coach came to me this morning. I was focused on the game and didn’t have a chance to speak to him. Shukri is close to 60 years old, and he will have a look at his comments,” he explained, aiming to strike a measured tone.

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The South African skipper also acknowledged that the series had seen heated moments from both teams. Without naming names, he referred to incidents such as the ‘bauna’ exchange involving Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant during the Kolkata Test, underlining that tempers had flared on and off the field.

Cricket commentators warned that words matter in international sport, and Bavuma’s restrained response suggested his camp was mindful of the fallout. He stressed that South Africa’s on-field dominance — historic wins, strong individual displays and clinical cricket across departments — should not be overshadowed by a single ill-judged phrase.

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With both teams now moving on, Bavuma indicated Conrad would likely review his statement and its public impact, while urging everyone to let the cricket speak for itself going forward. Fans worldwide will watch closely.