New Delhi: South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad has ignited a major talking point during the second Test after admitting that his team wanted India to “grovel” on the field before setting them an enormous 549-run target. His comments, which echoed a historically sensitive phrase from the past, have added unexpected tension to what has otherwise been a friendly series.
Conrad used the term while explaining South Africa’s decision to bat for nearly 80 overs despite holding a massive lead. He said he was “borrowing” the infamous line from former England captain Tony Greig, who had used the word “grovel” ahead of the 1976 series against West Indies—an expression long criticised for its racial undertones and links to colonial history.
“We Wanted Them Back on Their Feet”
Speaking at the post-day press conference, Conrad said South Africa’s intent was clear: exhaust the Indian bowlers and leave them with a near-impossible task on the final day.
“We wanted India to spend as much time as possible on their feet. We wanted them to really grovel—if I may steal the phrase—bat them out of the game and make them survive on the last day and an hour this evening,” Conrad said.
With India known for their deep batting lineup, the Proteas coach insisted that every extra minute spent in the field would benefit his pacers later.
Debate Over a Potentially Sensitive Term
While Conrad clarified that he was quoting Greig, the remark may still raise eyebrows. Cricket South Africa has not yet commented on whether internal discussions will follow, especially considering the word’s historical connotations and India’s own experiences with racism in cricket.
Declaration Strategy: Shadows, New Ball & Fatigue
Conrad defended South Africa’s unusually long second innings, stating there were several tactical reasons behind delaying the declaration.
Maximising the impact of the new ball:
The team wanted a “newish, hard ball” available for the morning session.
Using fading light to trouble Indian openers:
“When the shadows come across the pitch in the evening, there’s something in it for the quick bowlers,” Conrad explained.
Draining India’s bowlers ahead of a long chase:
South Africa’s plan mirrored their first-innings strategy, where India were made to field for almost two full days.
Conrad acknowledged that critics might question the timing if India manage to salvage a draw, but he stood firm on the decision.
“There’s no right or wrong. We wanted India to come out again after the second break and spend more time in the field.”
Final Day Challenge Ahead
With India fighting to avoid a series whitewash, Conrad stressed the need for South Africa to remain ruthless.
“We know they won’t roll over. We still have to be at our best tomorrow.”
A cheeky smile accompanied his closing remark that hindsight critics would surface only if the plan failed.
