Unsung heroes of Barabati: The people working against the rain to keep cricket going

When rain brings cricket to a halt, the ground staff at Barabati Stadium begin a race against time. While players and spectators wait for the weather to clear, the groundsmen work through the showers, trying to make the playing area ready for action again. Their efforts often go unnoticed, but during the rain-hit Bharat Masala Odisha T20 League—CM Trophy, their hard work has been central to keeping the game going whenever conditions allow.The ground staff at Barabati Stadium have had to work against time to prepare the playing area and ensure conditions are safe for cricket.

Hrishikesh Singh, popularly known as Keshav, has been working in the field for around 20 years. He said preparing the ground during the rainy season is challenging, but experience and teamwork help the staff manage difficult conditions.“It is very challenging to maintain the ground during the rainy season. I have been working in this field for 20 years, and experience has helped me handle these situations. We have to work hard and make sure the ground is ready for play,” Singh said.

Explaining the process after rain stops, Singh said the staff first focus on preparing the pitch before turning their attention to the outfield. The work requires coordinated efforts from the ground staff and others supporting them.“The first thing we do after the rain is prepare the pitch, followed by the outfield. Around 50 to 60 people came forward to support us, including 12 ground staff. It takes at least one-and-a-half to two hours to get the pitch ready,” he said.

Singh added that the staff have to make the most of the time available after the rain clears, while ensuring the playing surface is suitable for cricket at the Barabati Stadium that has hosted international matches.“We have to work as soon as the rain stops. There is limited time, especially when the match has already been delayed. We use different techniques and work together to prepare the ground. Teamwork is the most important thing,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Singh said the team remains focused on getting matches underway whenever conditions allow. He also acknowledged the support received from the organisers.“We always work with the aim of making sure the match can take place. The team has given us a lot of support, and the secretary has helped us a great deal,” he added.