Mastering the nuances of ground management

Over the last four days here at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Jacintha Kalyan was busy maintaining the outfield even as persistent rain gave stiff challenge to her team. Instructing groundsmen, driving hydraulic rollers and operating super soppers, Jacintha, the KSCA ground in-charge, painted a clear picture of a  dedicated professional. The 40-year-old has come a long away, since joining the association as a receptionist 22 years ago.

"I joined KSCA in 1993 as a receptionist and I have worked in many other departments such as accounts, ticket handling and advertisement before becoming a ground in-charge," reveals a proud Jacintha.

It was her immense interest that landed her the job of a ground in-charge and Jacintha thanks the KSCA management for the support. "Impressed by my skills, the KSCA Secretary, Brijesh Patel, first assigned me the role of a man manager in the ground staff department last year. But I showed great interest in managing the ground and learning to operate the equipment, following which I was given the role of a ground in-charge," Jacintha said.

Apart from the second Test between India and South Africa, which was her first international assignment, Jacintha has worked on maintaining the ground during the India 'A' series against Bangladesh 'A' and for this season's Ranji Trophy matches. But Jacintha admits that her work during the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year was the toughest. "We faced the issue of rain in a few matches but still managed to get the game going. That was a satisfying experience," she said.

Groundswomen are a common sight but it is rare to see a woman leading the ground duties and managing the staff. Jacintha though doesn't read too much into gender roles and believes in giving her best. "I never felt I will come this far but I also didn't doubt my abilities any time."

A good presence of mind has helped Jacintha attain success, feels L Prashant Rao, assistant curator, KSCA. "She has in-built leadership qualities and has a great presence of mind, which is required while handling the staff. And the job needs great physical strength and we are very happy with her work," explained Prashant.

Daughter of a farmer, Jacintha hails from Kanakapura and she thanks her family for all the support in her journey so far. "There are no fixed timings in my job and I thank my parents and husband for their support. The last four days have been tiring, with our day starting as early as 6:00 am but I love my work," she said.