Daijiworld Media Network – Guwahati

Guwahati, Nov 26: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma on Wednesday downplayed the controversy surrounding head coach Shukri Conrad’s comment that he wanted India to “really grovel”, a remark that has drawn criticism from former cricketers on both sides. Legends such as Anil Kumble and Dale Steyn expressed disappointment at the use of the word, which carries a sensitive historical context in cricket.

Speaking at the post-match press conference after South Africa’s 2-0 Test series sweep over India, Bavuma said he had only learned of the coach’s comments earlier in the day. “I was focused on the game and didn’t have a chance to speak to him. Shukri is close to 60 years old and he will have a look at his comments,” the Proteas skipper remarked.

Bavuma also referred to an incident from the first Test in Kolkata, where Jasprit Bumrah had jokingly used the term “bauna” in reference to his height. “In this series, certain guys have also crossed the line. Not saying coach crossed the line, but he will surely think about it,” he added.

The term “grovel” has deep cricketing history. In 1976, England captain Tony Greig infamously declared that he intended to make the West Indies “grovel”. The Caribbean side responded with a 5–0 demolition of England, turning the remark into one of cricket’s most remembered controversies.

Conrad’s comment came after the fourth day of the second Test, with South Africa in a dominant position en route to sealing their first series win in India in 25 years. The Proteas completed the sweep with a crushing 408-run victory in the second Test, following their 30-run win in Kolkata.