Conrad Praises Spin Revolution After SA’s Historic Win in India

South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad expressed immense satisfaction after his side’s spinners played a decisive role in the historic Test victory against India at the Eden Gardens. The 30-run win in Kolkata gave South Africa a 1–0 lead in the two-match series and marked their first Test triumph on Indian soil in more than 15 years.

The visitors, traditionally known for their fast-bowling strength, outperformed India with spin in subcontinental conditions — a shift Conrad believes signals a new era in South African cricket. Their only previous series win in India came in 2000, and Conrad said the latest result demonstrates the value of investing in slow bowling.

“We are thrilled to come to the subcontinent with a quality group of spinners,” Conrad said. “For years, we struggled here. It required a mindset change — a belief in spinners.”

He noted that the performance could inspire future generations back home. “Youngsters can now see that spinners have opportunities too. South Africa is not only a fast-bowling nation.”

A Shift That Began in Pakistan

South Africa’s spin reformation began during their tour of Pakistan, where they fielded a three-spinner attack. Senuran Muthusamy, who was Player of the Series with 11 wickets on that tour, is currently the team's third spinner and missed out in Kolkata due to conditions.

Conrad said South Africa have embraced a new psychological approach. “We may not always have the same natural spin talent as others, but what we lack in that, we make up by playing as a cohesive unit.”

One of South Africa’s Greatest Overseas Wins

Conrad placed the Eden Gardens victory alongside their World Test Championship win at Lord’s earlier this year, citing the difficulty of beating India at home.

“We never give up. I’m proud of the belief in that group. This win will do wonders for our confidence.”

The coach also emphasised that the series is far from over. “We came here to win the series, not just one Test. Guwahati will present its own challenges, and we are confident we can rise to them.”

Bavuma’s Calm Influence

Conrad praised captain Temba Bavuma for his unbeaten 55 in the second innings, which proved crucial in setting up the defendable target of 124.

“He brings calmness. In the last 18–24 months, he has been one of the best players in the world. His innings, and his partnership with Corbin Bosch this morning, made all the difference.”

Harmer’s Impact and Return

Veteran off-spinner Simon Harmer claimed an eight-wicket match haul and earned the Player of the Match award. Conrad revealed that Harmer had contacted him earlier in the year, expressing his desire to return.

“When Simon called me saying he wanted to play for South Africa again, I was even more desperate to have him back.”

Harmer, who also impressed during the Pakistan tour, remains central to South Africa’s spin-focused subcontinent strategy.

Bumrah-Bavuma Stump-Mic Incident

On the stump-mic moment where Jasprit Bumrah called Bavuma “bauna”, Conrad kept his response brief, saying, “Thankfully, he has a heart like a giant. We’ll leave it at that.”

South Africa will now look ahead to the decisive second Test in Guwahati, with a rare series victory in India within reach.