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‘It was a mindset change…’: South Africa coach praises the spin revolution following 30-run victory over India
Following a 30-run victory over India at the Eden Gardens, South African coach Shukri Conrad has acknowledged the change in bowling that went from pace heavy to adopting spin.
Last Updated on - November 16, 2025 8:44 PM IST
Temba Bavuma
South Africa coach Shukri Conrad was overwhelmed to see his spinners rule in the first Test against India at the Eden Gardens, signalling that the Rainbow Nation is no longer an exclusive “fast bowling country” and hoped that a lot more slow bowlers will emerge.
Fresh off a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Pakistan, South Africa out-bowled India on their own turning strip at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and secured a 30-run win- going 1-0 up in the two-match Test series.
“We are thrilled that we can come here to the subcontinent with a quality pack of spinners. We were always found wanting when we came to the subcontinent. I think it was a mindset change as well, that you’ve got to start showing your belief in spin bowlers,” Conrad said during the post-match media interaction.
The win was South Africa’s first Test victory in India in more than 15 years as they now dream of a series-win on these shores after 25 years. Their only series victory in India was way back in 2000 under Hansie Cronje, and spinners are central to the ambition of another series triumph.
“I think it will do wonders for our game back home as well because youngsters can now see there’s a line of sight that we’re keen on spinners as well. It’s not only a fast bowling country,” Shukri added.