Is 'Grovel' A Racist Word? Why Are Indian Fans Angry With SA Coach Shukri Conrad?

Controversy Over the Word “Grovel”

South Africa’s head coach, Shukri Conrad, sparked outrage among Indian cricket fans after using the word “grovel” while discussing the upcoming Test in Guwahati against India. His comment led to a wider debate over whether the term carries racial connotations, especially considering its historical use in cricket.

Historical Background

The sensitivity around the word dates back to 1976, when England’s Tony Greig, born in South Africa, famously said that the West Indies would “grovel” during their tour of England. The remark was viewed as racist and patronizing, given its colonial undertones. The West Indies team responded on the field by dominating England, turning Greig’s statement into a symbol of resistance and pride.

Present-Day Reaction

Indian fans took offense at Conrad’s use of the same word, interpreting it as a disrespectful term rooted in a painful history of racial hierarchy. Social media quickly filled with criticism, with many calling the remark “tone-deaf” and “insensitive” given its past meaning. Others defended Conrad, arguing that his intent was purely competitive and lacked racial motivation.

Coach’s Response

Conrad clarified that he used the word only to express strong competitive intent before the Test series. He emphasized that his comment had no racial implication and that people were reading too deeply into a motivational statement.

Broader Implications

The debate around this incident reflects how language shaped by colonial history continues to carry emotional weight, even in modern sports contexts. It also highlights the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity when using historically charged terms, especially in international events like cricket.

“It was never about race or disrespect,” Conrad said. “It was about playing hard cricket.”

Author’s summary: The backlash against Shukri Conrad’s “grovel” remark revives debates over racial memory in cricket and shows how language can still divide opinion across cultures.

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News18 News18 — 2025-11-25

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