Asia Cup 2023: ACC chief Jay Shah, SLC announce USD 50,000 prize for groundstaff in Colombo and Kandy

Despite rain in Colombo, no matches were abandoned in Asia Cup.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Jay Shah and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board took cognizance of the hard work and effort put in by the groundstaff and curators of the two venues of the Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka, Colombo, and Kandy, and announced grand prize money for them.

The Asia Cup 2023 was played in a hybrid model in Pakistan and Sri Lanka after the BCCI refused to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the tournament. Hence it was decided that Pakistan and Sri Lanka will co-host the tournament.

Pakistan hosted four matches including one Super 4s stage encounter, while Sri Lanka hosted the rest of the encounters including all India matches and the final in Kandy and Colombo.

However, rain proved to be a spoilsport in both Kandy and Colombo, with the big-ticket India vs. Pakistan encounter in Kandy being rained out after India batted and posted 266 runs. The India vs. Nepal match was delayed by rain as well.

The second India vs. Pakistan match was spread over two days due to rain as well.

The ground staff was up to the challenge of rain and was required to stay alert at all times. Their valiant efforts made sure that spectators wouldn't miss out on watching their favorite stars in action, from quickly removing the heavy coverings off the pitch to drying the pitch with cutting-edge methods.

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The curators also did a fine job as the pitches had enough in them for bowlers as well as batters.

This led to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Jay Shah and the Sri Lanka board rewarding the ground staff and curators for their effort with Jay Shah referring to them as the 'Unsung Heroes of Cricket'.

“Big Shoutout to the Unsung Heroes of Cricket! The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) are proud to announce a well-deserved prize money of USD 50,000 for the dedicated curators and groundsmen at Colombo and Kandy.

Their unwavering commitment and hard work made the Asia Cup 2023 an unforgettable spectacle. From pitch perfection to lush outfields, they ensured the stage was set for thrilling cricket action. This recognition highlights the critical role these individuals play in cricket's success. Let's celebrate and honor their yeoman services!” Jay Shah posted on X.

India won the Asia Cup 2023, their 8^th title after they defeated Sri Lanka in a one-sided final by 10 wickets.