South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad has sparked a massive controversy during the second Test in Guwahati after openly stating that he wanted to make India “grovel” on Day 4 (Tuesday, November 25). The remark, which instantly reminded fans and experts of one of cricket’s most provocative historical moments, drew strong criticism from several former Indian cricketers, including Anil Kumble, Cheteshwar Pujara, Parthiv Patel, and Aakash Chopra.
The controversy escalated further because South Africa’s tactics on Day 4 were already raising eyebrows. Despite holding a mammoth 508-run lead at lunch, South Africa surprisingly chose to bat on, even though the pitch in Guwahati had shown very little wear and tear. Their decision to prolong India’s time in the field seemed deliberate, especially as Tristan Stubbs anchored the innings with a composed 94 before Ravindra Jadeja finally dismissed him.
After the day’s play, Conrad openly admitted that the Proteas intentionally batted long to force India into long hours of toil. He hinted that the aim was both physical and mental exhaustion, and then used the explosive word “grovel”—a term with a deeply sensitive history in cricketing culture.
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Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel, speaking on Star Sports, blasted the comment as disrespectful and unnecessary. He stressed that Conrad should have known the weight the word carries, especially considering how iconic and controversial its past usage has been. Patel added that such language has no place in the modern game and even suggested that Conrad might feel compelled to issue an apology on the final day.
“There was a smirk on his face when he said it. It was absolutely disrespectful,” Parthiv Patel said. “You can play hard and compete fiercely, but such words are not needed on a cricket field.”
Legendary spinner Anil Kumble also criticised Conrad’s remarks, calling them unacceptable. He reminded viewers that teams in a position of dominance must always exercise humility rather than resort to provocation. Drawing parallels to the infamous 1976 incident involving England captain Tony Greig, who used the same term against the West Indies—a moment that backfired spectacularly—Kumble underlined how certain words carry historical baggage.
“When you’re winning, humility matters the most,” Anil Kumble said. “I certainly didn’t expect this from a coach. Your choice of words reflects your respect for the game.”
Cheteshwar Pujara offered a balanced perspective, acknowledging that the comment would definitely sting the Indian dressing room. However, he urged the players to channel that emotion into producing disciplined cricket rather than verbal retaliation.
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“It will hurt, no doubt. But the best response is to bat with purpose—build partnerships, fight through sessions, and let the cricket do the talking,” Cheteshwar Pujara said.
As India look to save the Test and avoid a humbling series defeat, Conrad’s remark has added an emotional spark to an already intense contest—one that will surely influence the mindset of both teams heading into the final day.
