Guwahati, November 25, 2025 - South Africa's head coach, Shukri Conrad, has ignited a controversy with his candid remarks following the fourth day of the second Test against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Conrad stated that his team aimed to make India "grovel" by setting a formidable 549-run target, a chase that the struggling hosts are currently facing to avoid defeat and a series whitewash.
The comment, made during a press conference on Tuesday, has stirred debate and added a layer of intensity to the already high-stakes match. When questioned about South Africa's declaration, Conrad revealed the strategy behind the imposing target. He elaborated that the intention was to have India spend a significant amount of time on the field, aiming to "bat them completely out the game" before challenging them to survive the final day.
Conrad later clarified that he was "stealing a phrase" from Tony Greig's infamous comment made in 1976 before England's 0-3 loss to Clive Lloyd's West Indies. Greig's original remark carried historical baggage, and Conrad's repetition of the term has resonated strongly, leaving some journalists surprised.
South Africa's dominant performance throughout the Test has put India in a precarious position. After winning the toss and electing to bat, South Africa posted a substantial 489 in their first innings, occupying the crease for nearly two days. In response, India were bundled out for a mere 201 in 86 overs. Despite holding a 288-run lead, South Africa chose not to enforce the follow-on, further extending their dominance. Tristan Stubbs's impressive 94 contributed to South Africa's second innings total of 260/5, setting the daunting target for India.
At the close of play on Day 4, India were struggling at 27 for 2, having lost openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal cheaply. The South African strategy of attacking with the new ball in the evening session paid dividends, placing India under immense pressure.
Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has also weighed in on India's performance, delivering a harsh critique of the team's batting display. Shastri described their performance as "very ordinary," particularly during their collapse on Day 3. He also questioned some of the team's selections and tactical decisions.
Dale Steyn, the former South African fast bowler, had earlier critiqued India's bowling strategy on Day 2, suggesting a lack of adaptability and overly defensive field placements. Steyn highlighted India's failure to adjust their plans, which allowed South Africa's lower order, particularly Senuran Muthusamy and Marco Jansen, to dominate.
As the Test enters its final day, India faces an uphill battle to save the match and avoid a series defeat. The remaining batsmen must produce a herculean effort to defy the odds. Meanwhile, head coach Gautam Gambhir will be hoping to avoid a 0-2 series defeat.
Conrad's controversial statement has added significant spice to the contest, intensifying the pressure on the Indian team as they fight to salvage their pride and prevent a series whitewash. The final day promises to be a gripping encounter, filled with tension and drama, as India seeks to overcome the enormous challenge set by a confident South African side.
