The India-South Africa 2025 Test series ended with visitors crushing the hosts with a historic 408-run win in Guwahati to seal a 2-0 sweep. However, following the win, head coach Shukri Conrad's controversial "grovel" comment has gained immense attention. The comment triggered various reactions, leading to legendary South African fast bowler Dale Steyn to strongly distance himself from the coach's statement.
The controversy was triggered after Day 4 of the second Test, when Conrad explained why South Africa delayed their second-innings declaration. He said the team wanted India to 'really grovel', a phrase borrowed from former England captain Tony Greig's infamous 1976 comment, stressed at the West Indies.
Conrad's choice of words immediately drew criticism from both former Indian and South African players. Meanwhile, Steyn expressed visible discomfort and disappointment with Conrad's choice of words.