Rain has so far disrupted several matches of the Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka, especially the India vs. Pakistan games, with multiple delays brought on by the inclement weather. But the ground crew did a fantastic job of covering and drying the ground in time to allow the games to resume on schedule.
In contrast to SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) nations, the entire process of covering and uncovering a cricket ground is carried out manually in Sri Lanka. About 60 trained groundsmen handle all of the labour.
Contrary to popular belief, the process itself doesn’t take very long. At the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, it takes roughly 30-45 minutes to cover the full playing field, according to an article in ESPNCricinfo. During strong winds, the process takes an additional 15-20 minutes.
Asia Cup 2023 weather clashes:
Along with methodically draining water from one cover to the next and into the drain, the personnel also carefully uncovers the moist ground. They save around an hour by carrying out the full operation by hand as opposed to utilising a super-sopper.
Notably, the super-sopper cannot be driven quickly, and the water it has absorbed must be periodically drained off. The R. Premadasa Stadium is covered with a total of 26 covers, each measuring 100 feet by 100 feet and costing between 4-6 lakh Sri Lankan rupees.
The groundsmen were observed employing various techniques to dry the pitch during Pakistan vs. India Super 4, Match 3 of the Asia Cup 2023, including electric fans and Halogen lights. In light of the expected torrential rain in the next several days, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is reportedly considering moving the Asia Cup final from Colombo to Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
The 16th iteration of the men’s Asia Cup will take place in 2023. With Pakistan serving as the designated host, the games were conducted as One Day Internationals. The event took place in Pakistan and Sri Lanka from August 30 to September 17, 2023. Six teams are competing in the competition. The current champions are Sri Lanka.
Fans have publicly expressed their discontent with ACC for holding the tournament during Sri Lanka’s rainy season and asked that it be moved. So, this was all about the Asia Cup 2023. Also read, Sachin Tendulkar & Virat Kohli dismissed THESE 3 batters!
