South Africa are on the verge of winning a Test series against India – but one comment, quite possibly a throwaway line, from coach Shukri Conrad has taken the attention off the cricket and become the biggest talking point.
The hosts are struggling at 2-27 in their second innings and still trail by 522 runs at Barsapara Stadium in India as the Proteas close in on a 2-0 series triumph.
After an imposing total of 489 in their first dig, South Africa then bowled India out for 201 and backed it up with another solid batting display before declaring.
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Already facing an uphill battle to chase down a mammoth score to win the match and draw the series, India were dealt two blows late on day four when openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) and KL Rahul (6) were both dismissed cheaply.
The likely results of a win for South Africa or even a draw would mark the first time the tourists have won a Test series on Indian soil in a quarter of a century.
Rishabh Pant walks off after being dismissed Ritu Raj Konwar
However, their incredible performances on the field have been marred by post-play controversy after remarks made by Conrad in his press conference.
“We wanted the Indians to spend as much time out on their feet in the field, we wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase,” he told reporters.
“Bat them completely out the game and then say to them ‘come and survive on the last day and an hour this evening’ … but we also know they’re not just going to roll over.
“We’re going to have to be at our very best tomorrow.”
The word “grovel” has sparked outrage in India due to its racial undertones that stem from the nation’s colonial history.
“South African head coach Shukri Conrad saying “we wanted India to grovel” in the press conference is a huge misstep,” journalist Gargi Raut said.
“Grovel carries a long history of deeply offensive, racial undertones.
“Maybe a slip of the tongue, but a costly one.”
The term was used by former England captain Tony Greig in the 1970s during a match against the West Indies, which was met with angst due to England’s history of colonisation.
Greig – who was born in South Africa – publicly apologised for the statement.
India will resume their innings on Wednesday afternoon (AEDT) with Sai Sudharsan (2) and nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav (4) at the crease.
