Claims surfaced on social media that Rohit Sharma avoided shaking hands with South Africa coach Shukri Conrad following the first ODI between India and South Africa in Ranchi, similar to the snub received by Virat Kohli. However, video footage provides clarity, revealing that unlike Kohli, Rohit did shake hands with Conrad.

Handshake Video Analysis

The clips show the Indian team returning to the dressing room after their 17-run victory. While Kohli was seen appearing to avoid Conrad, recent footage captures Rohit Sharma as the second man in the handshake queue behind Kohli, clearly shaking hands with the South African coach, dispelling claims of snubbed greetings.

The ‘Grovel’ Controversy

The tension traces back to the Guwahati Test, where South Africa’s prolonged batting strategy forced India’s bowlers to spend excessive time on the field. Coach Conrad’s post-match comment, “We wanted India to spend as much time on their feet out in the field. We wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase, bat them completely out of the game. ,” sparked uproar. Many, including legends Dale Steyn and Anil Kumble

, criticized the use of ‘grovel’ as a provocative, politically charged term unsuitable for modern cricket.

This remark likely fueled Kohli’s visible snub of Conrad during the post-match handshake lineup, reflecting the Indian camp’s disappointment over the controversial phrase.