India, Nov. 25 -- Oftentimes, it's not what you mean so much as what words you use in which context that assumes great significance. If he didn't know it already, Shukri Conrad would have been well enlightened by now.

South Africa's inspirational coach has worked wonders since being appointed head coach of the Test team in January 2023, steering them to the World Test Championship title earlier this year and now sitting on the cusp of his nation's first series victory in India since 2000. He is well-spoken and eloquent, is anything but disrespectful of the opposition, and while he is known to speak his mind, he doesn't believe in theatrics or grandstanding.

Which is exactly why his 'wanted them to really grovel' comment on a mundane Tue...