India vs South Africa Test: Kumble, Pujara React to ‘Grovel’ Remark

India vs South Africa Test: A new head coach for South Africa, Shukri Conrad, has raised eyebrows among the cricketing community. It is following a controversial statement made during the second test match held in Guwahati. There has been much response throughout the cricketing universe regarding this particular comment. This has sent shockwaves throughout the cricket world via social media, television, and print media.

A statement that created confusion and controversy:

On Day Four (4) of the second Test match, as India needed to chase down over five hundred (500) runs. Conrad made the statement that he hoped India would “grovel”.

This was said:

“The goal was for India to stay on their feet for as long as possible while in the field.” “We wanted them to actually have to beg, to put it mildly…”

These statements, because of their historical perspectives, quickly created a buzz in the cricketing community and on social media.

Anil Kumble: “Be Humble After Victory”

Cricketing legend Anil Kumble showed his discontent. He stated that being humble after achieving success is important.

Kumble’s comment was as follows:

“This has historical significance.” Fifty (50) years ago, an English captain made the same remark about a very successful West Indies team… When you’re in a leading position, it’s even more important to be mindful of your wording. “During times like these, humility is of utmost importance.”

Cheteshwar Pujara Accepts Comment From Cricket Community May Be A Motivating Factor

“We’re all one big family and maybe the comment makes us more motivated on the field,” said Cheteshwar Pujara after hearing the comment made by the South African coaching staff. He acknowledged that the comment might be hurtful, but at the same time, it offers opportunities for success.

“It will motivate the team. The best way to respond is by performing on
the pitch. If we want to win, we need to perform together over the course of three sessions, bat together and form partnerships.”

Pujara noted that India’s poor performance in the match is the primary reason for the team’s unfavourable position, and the response should come from batting, not from expressions.

Origin of Phrase “Groveling”

There are numerous historical interpretations associated with the term “groveling” in cricket.

In 1976, when he became captain of the England cricket team, Tony Greig used this same term to describe what he wanted
players from the Caribbean teams to play like. This statement was met with fierce criticism and became a springboard for West Indies cricket’s greatest success.

Because of this backdrop, many people view Conrad’s use of that term in that context to be unnecessary and disrespectful, regardless of
what he may have meant by the phrase.

Social network polarization is causing people who watch, play, study, and coach cricket to gather online to express their shock at this comment and their opinions about it.

Some people feel that this type of comment has a negative effect on the match and adds extra pressure to the players, while others argue that almost all forms of competitive cricket involve mental games (or psychological strategies) to be played by both sides.

As of now, the comment made by Conrad has become a media focal point concerning sports news headlines today and has overshadowed the tremendous performance of South African cricket.

What lies Ahead

As India prepares to chase a very large target, the comment from Conrad will certainly heighten the intensity of the emotional aspect of the last day of the Test match. Time will tell if the comment serves to energise Team India, or bolster Team South Africa’s confidence.

What is clear is that this statement has resulted in a resurgence of discussion about respect, sportsmanship, and the precarious balance between a desire to win and a willingness to engage in conflict.