The India–South Africa 2025 Test series ended with visitors crushing the hosts with a historic 408-run win in Guwahati to seal a 2–0 sweep. However, following the win, head coach Shukri Conrad’s controversial “grovel” comment has gained immense attention. The comment triggered various reactions, leading to legendary South African fast bowler Dale Steyn to strongly distance himself from the coach’s statement.
The controversy was triggered after Day 4 of the second Test, when Conrad explained why South Africa delayed their second-innings declaration. He said the team wanted India to ‘really grovel’, a phrase borrowed from former England captain Tony Greig’s infamous 1976 comment, stressed at the West Indies.
Conrad’s choice of words immediately drew criticism from both former Indian and South African players. Meanwhile, Steyn expressed visible discomfort and disappointment with Conrad’s choice of words.
“I’m not on that boat, eh? I don’t like that. I almost don’t even want to make a comment about it. There are certain things you just don’t say. There’s stigma attached to it. It just wasn’t necessary. South Africa were in such a dominant position—saying nothing is enough. I’m just not on that boat.” He doubled down on why the phrase was inappropriate, regardless of tone or intention.“Maybe I pick up his tone now—it’s not as harsh as Tony Greig’s. But that doesn’t matter. You just don’t use words like that. Toss it. You don’t have to say it. That’s disappointing. Sorry, Shukri, but that’s disappointing,” Steyn said.
Anil Kumble and Cheteshwar Pujara also slam the comment
Steyn stated that, irrespective of tone or intent, the word ‘grovel’ should have no place in modern cricket. Importantly, he also noted that South Africa was already in a commanding position, making such provocation unnecessary.
Furthermore, former India captain Anil Kumble and veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara also slammed the comment, calling it disrespectful, especially when coming from a team on the brink of a dominant series victory. On the field, India suffered their worst home Test defeat in history. Their 408-run loss dented their World Test Championship hopes, placing them fifth on the points table.
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