Kumble, Steyn Criticise SA Coach Shukri Conrad Over ‘Grovel’ Remark in IND vs SA Test Series

South Africa coach Shukri Conrad has drawn sharp criticism for using the word “grovel” while praising his team’s dominance over India in the ongoing Test series. The remark — made after Day 4 of the Guwahati Test — triggered immediate backlash because of its racial history in cricket, prompting strong reactions from legends Anil Kumble and Dale Steyn.

Conrad had said that South Africa wanted India “to really grovel” by setting a massive target and forcing them into a grueling fourth-innings battle. While the comment appeared to be casual confidence, the phrasing carried historical weight closely tied to the sport’s colonial past.

Why the Word ‘Grovel’ Sparked Outrage

The word has long-standing racial connotations due to England captain Tony Greig’s infamous comment in 1976, when he declared that England would make the West Indies “grovel.” The statement was widely condemned as racially offensive, and it ignited fierce backlash across the Caribbean. The West Indies team responded with one of the most dominant series performances in cricket history.

For many, Conrad’s decision to use the same word — even with different intent — felt unnecessary and insensitive.

Kumble Condemns Remark, Calls for Humility

Anil Kumble said the choice of words was disappointing, particularly from a South African setup that has built a reputation for discipline and respect on tours.

“When you are on top, humility matters. I didn’t expect this from South Africa, especially the support staff. This isn’t the right choice of words,” Kumble said on JioStar.

He added that the history behind the term should have made the coach more cautious.

Dale Steyn: ‘Sorry Shukri, That’s Disappointing’

Dale Steyn agreed, stating that certain expressions should simply never be used, given the stigma attached to them.

“There are things you just don’t say. Even if the context is different, the word has history. It wasn’t necessary,” Steyn said.
“Sorry Shukri, but it’s disappointing.”

South Africa’s Dominance Contextualises the Controversy

South Africa’s strong performance in India has amplified the sensitivity of the remark. The Proteas are on the verge of a historic 2–0 Test series victory, having crushed India by 30 runs in Kolkata and then outplaying them again on a turning pitch in Guwahati.

After piling up 489 runs, the visitors bowled India out for 201 before choosing not to enforce the follow-on. Tristan Stubbs’ 94 powered them to 260/5 before declaring and setting India an improbable target of 549. By Day 5’s second session, India were struggling at 130/7, staring at a rare home-series whitewash.

While Conrad may have intended the remark as light-hearted, cricketing greats insist that language with painful historical roots has no place in modern sport, especially during a high-stakes international series.