The one thing that Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) can confidently boast about is the preparation of pitches and ground for the high-profile Indian Premier League.
And, it was not a surprise for critics when HCA Secretary T. Seshnarayan and chief curator Y.L. Chandrasekhar collected the cash incentive for being the joint-winners (with Punjab Cricket Association for Mohali Stadium) in preparing the best ‘pitch and ground’ in the 2019 Vivo IPL season.
Committed ground staff
This is a remarkable feat, given that the dedicated ground staff was facing acute hardship in terms of not getting incentives for long before they were forced to stage a dharna to have the issue resolved recently. But for all those who are regular to the Uppal Stadium, their passion and commitment to the job is apparently unquestionable.
“When it comes to doing our job, we put behind all disappointments, for our primary aim is to see Hyderabad get name and fame,” says Mallesh, one of the senior-most ground staff who often deputes for the chief curator whenever the latter goes outstation for BCCI assignments.
Mr. Seshnarayan too lauded the work of the ground staff. “They have always rallied behind the association. Yes, there were issues and personally, I always try my best to keep them in good spirit by addressing their issues as quickly as possible. I feel it is better that this award is also shared by those slogging at Gymkhana Ground as they also chipped in at Uppal whenever there was an exigency,” he said.
HCA had earlier got ‘best curator’ award of IPL twice. After this year’s IPL final on Sunday night, when the HCA officials collected the ₹25 lakh cash incentive, which will be shared by the entire ground staff, it was another moment to cherish.
