IND vs SA: Anil Kumble and Cheteshwar Pujara responded to South Africa coach’s controversial comment

South Africa head coach Thank you Conrad A big controversy broke out on Saturday after the use of this word. “grovel” During this, he told about his team’s intentions against India. Second test in GuwahatiThe comment, made after South Africa had gained complete control on the fourth day, stunned many journalists and was immediately criticized by Indian cricket stalwarts,

Although the term is not inherently racist in itself, it carries heavy historical baggage in cricket due to its association with racial tension and colonial overtones, making Conrad’s use particularly sensitive.

Why is the term “grovel” controversial?

The term became notorious during England’s 1976 tour of the West Indies, when England captain Tony Greig, a white South African-born cricketer, provocatively announced that his team would make the West Indies. “Grovel.” The comment was widely condemned as racially insensitive, especially given the political climate and historical power dynamics at the time.

Since then, “Grovel”Cricket remains a charged term in discussion, often considered derogatory when used against teams with diverse racial or colonial histories.

South Africa head coach says he was “stealing a phrase”

Speaking after South Africa set India a mammoth target of over 500 runs, Conrad doubled down on his team’s aggressive mindset.

“We wanted India to spend as much time on their feet in the field as possible. We wanted them to really groan – to steal a phrase – take them completely out of the game and then say to them, OK, come and survive the last day,” He told reporters.

The coach’s casual use of the term immediately sparked debate, with many questioning the need to invoke such a phrase on the verge of a historic victory.

Former Indian captain and spin legend Anil Kumble expressed surprise at Conrad’s comments, urging humility from the South African camp.

“There is history attached to this. Fifty years ago, an England captain used this same phrase against the great West Indies team, and we all know what happened next,” Kumble said on Star Sports India.

“South Africa may have won the series, but when you are on top, your choice of words matters. Humility is most important at such times.”

Kumble said he expected better decisions from the experienced coach, who represents a team that is on the verge of a historic Test series win in India.

“I certainly didn’t expect that from the coach or the support staff. When you’re winning, the first thing is to be polite, not say something like that in a press conference.”

Also read: South Africa dominates India under the leadership of Tristan Stubbs on the fourth day of Guwahati Test, fans go wild

Cheteshwar Pujara believes Conrad’s comments will set Team India on fire

india batsman Cheteshwar Pujara It was also acknowledged that Conrad’s comments would upset the dressing room but could motivate the team on the final day.

“This will cause anger in the team, but it will also cause harm. I don’t think that statement will have any impact.” Pujara said.

“The best way to respond is to fight – batting for three sessions, building partnerships. We are in this position because we have not played good cricket, and the answer should come not with words, but with the bat.”

With India facing an uphill battle to save the Test, Conrad’s comments have added new emotional intensity to an already heated contest.

As both the teams prepare for the decisive final day, all eyes will be on how Team India reacts on the field to the comment that has reopened historical wounds and rekindled the pride of modern cricket.

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