"Certain guys have also crossed the line" - Temba Bavuma opens up on South Africa coach's controversial remark after IND vs SA 2025 Test series

South African captain Temba Bavuma has opened up on head coach Shukri Conrad's controversial remark during the Guwahati Test against India. Addressing Conrad's 'grovel' comment, Bavuma said he only came to know about the statement in the morning, but suggested that some others had also crossed the line during the Test series.

After Day 4 of the second Test against India in Guwahati, Conrad was asked about South Africa's late declaration. The 58-year-old reasoned that they wanted "India to really grovel". The statement drew sharp criticism, but Conrad had clarified that he was borrowing the comment from former England skipper Tony Greig's infamous remark. Although the comments were made in different contexts, many felt they carried a racial undertone.

When asked about Conrad's comments during the post-game presser, Bavuma stated, as quoted by India Today:

"Comments made by coach came to me this morning. I was focused on the game and didn't have a chance to speak to him. Shukri is close to 60 years old and he will have a look at his comments. But in this series certain guys have also crossed the line. Not saying coach crossed the line, but he will surely think about it."

Controversy courted the first Test in Kolkata too when Jasprit Bumrah referred to the Proteas captain as 'bauna' while speaking to teammates whether or not to opt for DRS. The word 'bauna' refers to someone of short height, and it was viewed by some as potentially offensive.

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"We've had tough days and we know how tough it can be" - Temba Bavuma

South Africa national cricket team. (Credits: Proteas Men X)

Reflecting on the commanding 2-0 series victory, Bavuma said the win was as South Africa had suffered previously on Indian soil. Bavuma said during the post-game presentation:

"It's not every day where you get to think that you can come to India and walk away with a 2-0 series win. I think what makes it sweeter as well for some of us within the group is the fact that we've been on the other side of the result. We've had tough days and we know how tough it can be. But yeah, I think for this group of gentlemen, again, another incredible achievement. I think it probably answers some questions that were posed to us as a group."

Bavuma became the first South African captain since Hansie Cronje in 2000 to win a Test series on Indian soil.