While superstar players and champion teams often dominate the headlines in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the behind-the-scenes efforts of the groundsmen and curators have not gone unnoticed, thanks to the honorary secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Jay Shah. He has made sure that these unsung heroes receive the recognition and rewards they deserve for their hard work and dedication.
The 17th edition of the IPL faced numerous logistical and operational challenges. Alongside the regular 10 venues, three additional stadiums had to be prepared to accommodate the expanded 10-team tournament. The unpredictable weather conditions across different parts of the country further complicated the task of pitch preparation.
Throughout the tournament, the groundsmen and curators at all 13 venues worked tirelessly under harsh conditions, including scorching summer heat and unseasonal rains, to deliver high-quality pitches for the IPL’s high-intensity matches. Their relentless efforts played a crucial role in the success of the tournament, and Shah acknowledged their vital contribution.
WATCH – Shah Rukh Khan Joins CSK Fans In Chants During KKR’s IPL 2024 Victory Celebration
“The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions. As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25 lakhs each, and those at the 3 additional venues will get INR 10 lakhs each. Thank you for your dedication and hard work!” Jay Shah wrote on his X handle.
The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions. As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25…
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) May 27, 2024
After two months of intense cricketing action, the league crowned its winner. At the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinched their third IPL title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets, with 57 balls to spare in the final.
ALSO READ: KKR Crowned Champions: IPL 2024 Final Sparks Celebration On Social Media
Additionally, the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad was honoured with the ‘Pitch and Ground Award’ and received a prize of INR 50 lakh during the award ceremony. This recognition highlights the essential role played by the ground staff and curators in ensuring the smooth conduct and success of the tournament.
