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South Africa Coach Shukri Conrad’s ‘Grovel’ Remark Draws Backlash During India Test

The comment echoed Tony Greig’s 1976 line with racial overtones, reviving sensitivity about language in cricket.

Overview

  • Conrad said after Day 4 in Guwahati, “We wanted them to really grovel,” adding he was “to steal a phrase” while explaining South Africa’s declaration strategy.
  • South Africa declared at 260 for 5 to set India 549, and India closed on 27 for 2, leaving the hosts facing a near-impossible chase on the final day.
  • The wording drew immediate criticism from Indian fans and journalists on social media, who highlighted the term’s demeaning connotations.
  • Coverage linked the remark to England captain Tony Greig’s infamous 1976 “grovel” comment about the West Indies, which Clive Lloyd and others condemned for racial undertones.
  • As of publication, there was no public disciplinary action or formal response from Cricket South Africa regarding Conrad’s remarks.