At the news conference after Day 4 of the second Test in Guwahati, South Africa’s head coach Shukri Conrad made an unwise comment that caused a significant debate. Conrad stated that he wanted the squad to grovel after the Proteas gave India a target of more than 500 runs to chase on the last day.
Legends of Indian cricket like Anil Kumble and Cheteshwar Pujara expressed shock at the remark, saying they did not anticipate Shukri Conrad using such language.
“We wanted India to be on their feet in the field for as long as possible. During the press conference, Shukri Conrad stated, “We wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase, to bat them completely out of the game, and then say to them well, come and survive on the last day and an hour this evening.”
One of the best spinners in history, Kumble, stated that he thought a side like South Africa would maintain their composure, particularly as they were about to defeat India in a historic match.
“This has a history to it. We all know what happened when an England captain used the same remark against the legendary West Indies team fifty years ago. The series has probably been won by South Africa, but while you’re winning, it matters what you say. It is in these situations that humility is most crucial. This was definitely not what I expected from the coach or the support personnel. Kumble stated, “The first thing to do when you’re winning is to remain humble and not say something like this at a press conference.”
Speaking prior to the play on the last day, Pujara expressed his hope that the statement would inspire the Indian squad. He went on to say that India must form solid partnerships and reply forcefully with the bat in order to battle through all three sessions.
“It motivates the squad, but it will also cause pain. That statement won’t be well received in the dressing room, in my opinion. However, overcoming it in three sessions and forming alliances are the greatest ways to respond to it. We’re in this situation because we haven’t played good cricket, and the bat, not the words, must be used to respond,” Pujara stated.
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