The game of cricket has changed drastically in the last 20 years and so has the role of a pitch curator. While with the advent of T20 leagues such as IPL and the advent of modern day cricket, the job of being a curator of a cricket pitch has grown more challenging and lucrative.
So, whether you’re dreaming of working with the BCCI, state cricket associations, or international cricket boards – I’ve put together this complete guide that will tell you all that you need to do to get started into making a career out of being a successful pitch curator in 2025.
What is a Pitch Curator? (Definition & Responsibilities)
A pitch curator is a specialized professional responsible for preparing, maintaining and managing cricket pitches to ensure optimal playing conditions for various match formats. Often confused with groundsmen, pitch curators have advanced technical knowledge of soil science, weather patterns and cricket-specific requirements.
Key Responsibilities of a Cricket Pitch Curator
Modern pitch curators handle far more complex responsibilities than their predecessors. Soil composition and quantitating the moisture levels in the soil: pre-match preparation phase in sports is the analysis and choice of the conditions in the playing field. The curators have to make pitches based on the specific match format needs, be it in Test matches in which there is the need of longer lasting surfaces, or T20 games which need the pitch to be balanced in batting and bowling conditions. This one involves organizing with the officials of the match as well as managing of a complicated timeline of field rolling, and watering, cutting of grass among others.
Curators keep checking on the conditions of the pitch during the match and ensure safety measures so that players are not inconvenienced during the matches. They liaise with match referees on pitch reports and make on the spot correction on changes in weather conditions. This needs vigilance at all times and quick judgment making.
The part of post-match analysis includes writing down pitch behavior and match results in order to be better prepared in the following occasions. Curators are supposed to devise recovery/maintenance schedules, reports in detail to the cricket boards, and to go through feedbacks on what players and officials think works best on the foundation of which they are to constantly perfect their techniques.
Pitch Curator vs Groundsman: Understanding the Difference
Many people confuse pitch curators with groundsmen, but there are distinct differences. A Pitch Curator specializes in cricket pitch preparation and requires formal certification such as BCCI Level 1 or equivalent qualifications. They are particularly concerned about the 22-yard playing field with strategic decision-making powers and additionally receive a higher amount of salary of 35,0000 to 70,000 per month.
By comparison, a Groundsman engages with overall ground maintenance tasks and they may not need to be dealing with specific cricket certification. They work on the entire grounds such as the ones in the outfield, boundary zones, and facilities. Their salaries are often significantly less (both in terms of absolute amount and the amount per month starting with 15,000 and going up to 40,000 per month) and they perform maintenance operations which are senior-supervised, but do not affect strategic decisions.
Why Pitch Curators Are Crucial in Modern Cricket
The evolution of cricket, particularly with T20 formats, has made pitch curator jobs more critical than ever. This is, as pointed out in the recent analysis of the game, a jigsaw puzzle on how to get the wicket right, in particular, in T20. Contemporary curators have designs on balancing between fun and equal competition in many forms.
Modern cricket presents unique challenges that make pitch curator jobs more critical than ever. The art of an expert in one match and the art of a planner in the back to back matches, which is a tournament like the IPL, needs an outstanding skill. Another of the things that have to be controlled by curators is the dew factor during day night games and this can considerably impact the playing conditions and also the outcome of the match. The problem is compounded in reconciling the problems of benefits of bat and ball in varying formats as it is in response to new technologies of drop-in pitches. Moreover, the task of the curator is to comply with broadcast and entertainment needs that further complicate the job.
How to Become a Pitch Curator in 2025
Becoming a professional pitch curator requires a combination of education, certification, and practical experience. Here’s the step-by-step pathway to establishing yourself in this specialized field.
Educational Requirements for Pitch Curator
The basic educational eligibility criteria are completion of Class 12 th standard in any stream, preferably Science, and general knowledge of soil science and horticulture. Most jobs need a candidate to be aged between 18-35, there should be a physical fitness to go and work outside and outdoor work.
Desired qualifications, an advancement on the job are qualifications as diplomas or degrees in Agriculture, Horticulture or Sports Ground Management. Previous knowledge or experience in groundskeeping or turf management is appreciated greatly as well as of certain cricket rules and the variants of matches. Simple computer ability to keep records and reporting is becoming serious in the new era of cricket grounds management.
Information On BCCI Level 1 Certification Course
The BCCI certification is the gold standard for cricket pitch curators in India. BCCI certification course is a difficult course in a 7 10 day training with fee of 5000 to 10,000 rupees in different locations. Such training is also carried out 2-3 times per year in various states in the largest cricket stadiums and the centers specific to NCA.
The entire course will include soil science and pitch construction basics, water and irrigation systems, and the different types of grass and how they would be maintained. Those enrolled acquire the methods of the analysis of the impact of weather conditions and adaptations along with the mastering of the preparation of matches on the Test, ODI, and T10 formats. Safety steps, dealing with equipment and vital skills in documentation and report writing are also parts of the program.
Trainees have both written (70 marks on theory) and practical demonstration (30 marks) to pass with a minimum of 60 percent of the marks. The certification is valid at three years and its period can be extended with continued education.
Essential Skills Every Pitch Curator Needs
Successful pitch curators must develop a comprehensive set of technical skills including soil analysis and pH testing, irrigation system management, and advanced grass cutting and rolling techniques. They require a skills training on weather monitoring and predictions, and also skills in operating and maintaining equipment.
It is also important to have soft skills in order to address players, officials, and representatives of media. The capacity and capability to solve problems under pressure are equally essential and they are used in times when games are scheduled back to back and it is vital to make permanent decisions which affect the results of the games. Curators need skills to manage time because they often have to fulfill several tasks and attention to detail means not only being safe but also delivering a quality product. It is also required to perform leadership functions when organizing teams of ground staff and multifaceted preparation processes.
International/Alternative Certification Paths
To the one who is interested in having an international opportunity, there are a number of reputable institutions that provide certified certificates. The UK offers the Level 2 Award in Sports Turf, a 3-6 month course offered by the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) at the cost of 800-1,500 pounds and accepted globally. Grounds Management Association (GMA) provides a Certificate in Cricket Ground Maintenance in a blended format that includes online and practical parts costing between 600-1.200 GBP and providing access to international employment.
The course on curating the pitch by Cricket Australia can offer extended methods of pitch curating and drop-in pitch specializing. It is a high-density 2 weeks long course at the price of AUD 3,000-5,000 which provides a useful knowledge of the latest field in pitch preparation practices adopted in Australian cricket.
Pitch Curator Salary in India (2025 Update)
Pitch curator salary varies significantly based on employer, experience level, and geographic location. Knowing about these differences can make anyone pursuing a career in curation realistic and organize their career path.
BCCI Pitch Curator Salary: ₹35,000 to ₹70,000 Monthly
BCCI also offers direct employment at multiple levels with the starting pay being 35,000 to 45,000 rupees a month to curators having 0 to 2 years of experience. The professionals in the levels of 2-5 years of experience receive 45000-60000 INR per month, whereas the experience of 5 years or more of these professionals imposes the salary increase to 60000-70000 INR per month. Along with these, there are other benefits of these positions which include HRA, travel allowances and medical insurance.
The match based payment systems are added sources of income with international matches as an added source of 15,000-25,000 (Rs.) and domestic match as an added source of 8,000-15,000 (Rs.) Around 2 thousand to 5 thousand per day is the addition to the income of a curator due to supervision during practice sessions.
IPL Pitch Curator Earnings & Benefits
The IPL pitch curator salary represents some of the highest earnings in Indian cricket ground management. A Head Curator can gain up to 15 lakh and 8 lakh rupees per season that lasts approximately two months. Assistant Curators get 3 000 000 to 6 000 000 INR per season, and 10 000 to 20 000 INR per match-day.
Additional benefits of IPL jobs at the position level involve accommodation and meals availed, costs of travel as well as bonuses awarded depending on the pitch ratings. There is a great demand of IPL positions among the curator community because of the networking chances with global practitioners, publicity in the media and the career boost that such positions command.
Salaries of State Association vs Private Clubs
State Cricket Associations usually have salaries of 25,000 Indian rupees to 50,000 Indian rupees per month with match allowance of 5,000 to 10,000 Indian rupees every match. The pay rates on such positions typically allow an annual increment of 8-12 percent, as well as high job security owing to the nature of such jobs as government or quasi-government.
The average Private Cricket Clubs pay between 20,000 to 40,000 a month and variable performance bonuses. Although the job security is not as high as those found in state associations, such positions might be more appealing to those curators who need their career to develop quicker. Institutions such as the universities and colleges in India usually offer 18,000 to 35,000 Indian rupees per month whereas the sports academies present 25,000 to 45,000 Indian rupees per month and at times with some teaching duties which further elevates the compensation.
International Pitch Curator Salary Comparison
The world offers a taste of what probable income of a skilled curator is. Australian contracts boast of AUD 60,000 to 90,000 a year (~ 35-50 lakhs), whereas the cardiovascular cricketing boards of England permit 35,000 to 55,000 a year (~ 35-55 lakhs). New Zealand Jobs are paid between 50, 000 to 70, 000 NZD (25-35 lakhs) per year and South Africa are between 300 000 and 500 000 ZAR (12-20 lakhs) per year. Such overseas jobs normally demand high certifications and work visas assignment.
BCCI Pitch Curator Certification Process
Getting BCCI certification is crucial for serious career advancement in Indian cricket ground management. The detailed certification process requires careful planning and preparation.
The Process of Applying to BCCI Level 1 Course
BCCI normally announces its certification courses in March and September and the application period starts 15-30 days after the announcement date. Courses are typically scheduled in April-May and October-November and the results are announce within 30 days of course completion.
The process of applying entails filling the form found on the BCCI site, educational certificates showing that applicants have attained at least classes 10 and 12 and age confirmation using documents that show that an applicant is aged between 18 and 35 years for the majority of classes. Applicants should submit medical fitness certificate, four passport size photographs, receipt of payment of fee and experience certificate in case of experience holder.
Applications are selected on a first come first serve basis and state association recommendations are prioritized. Past experience in a cricket ground will be an advantage and a physical fitness test may also be done subject to the demands of the course.
Duration of the Course, Fee Structure and Curriculum
The course syllabus is developed in detail, 8-10 days, and it helps to follow the necessary information by a gradually increasing choice. Days 1-2 would deal with the introduction to pitch science and the basics of soil and Days 3-4 would venture into the field of practical pitch preparation methods. Days 5-6 focus on how Test, ODI and T20 matches should be specially trained, followed by Day 7 on preparations on the weather and emergency systems. The course is ended by assessment, evaluation, certification ceremony, and networking opportunities.
The break up of fees is 7500 (course fee), 1500 (course study material), and 2000 (practical kit items). It costs 200-500 rupees per night needed, the inclusion and exclusion of food add up to 300-500 rupees daily.
Practical Training Requirement
The practical elements involve soil testing with professional tools, demonstration of a pitch rolling with various patterns, and grass cutting practices whose emphasis is cutting off the height. The participants are taken through training in operating watering systems and problem solving, carrying out simulation games on matches, and writing and documenting report techniques.
The assessment criteria is divided into theoretical part 40 percent including written tests where everything covered in class is tested and practical skills 40 percent where pitch preparation techniques will be tested and pitch analysis 20 percent where the conditions of pitch will be tested and suitable recommendations will be provided. He/she must pass in all component minimum 60%, make a satisfactory practical demonstration and attend (every element of the course) and have a mandatory 90% minimum attendance.
Renewal Certification & Advanced Levels
BCCI Level 1 certification certificate is valid three years after date of issuance. Renewal involves 16 hours of continued education, which is renewed under a 2,500 rupee renewal fee, renewed online by application involving documentation of experience.
There is higher tier certification through Level 2 available after two years of Level 1 experience, Level 3 master curator level requiring a minimum of 5+ years experience and specific modules that certify T20 specialists and drop-in pitch gurus. International certification programs provide the opportunities of IOG/GMA equivalence to those who want to develop their global careers.
Career Opportunities for Pitch Curators
The job market for pitch curators offers diverse opportunities across different sectors, be it grassroots cricket or international competitions. Understanding these various opportunities helps aspiring curators choose the most suitable career path.
Jobs with BCCI & State Cricket Associations
Direct positions offered by BCCI to its staff are privileged affairs at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) as curators, international head curators, mobile curator at away series and instructors of training programs. These are the top posts of career as a curator in Indian cricket.
The state association opportunities include those as ranji trophy ground curator opportunities, state academy head curator opportunities, regional training coordinator opportunities and youth cricket program supervisor opportunities. The application can be done by checking the BCCI careers site regularly, sending direct applications to a state association, using credentials to apply via networking contacts and applying to performance-based promotions in temporary roles.
IPL & Private Franchise Opportunities
The franchise direct employment has position as home ground head curator, away match traveling curator, maintenance supervisor of the practice facility, and ground manager youth academy. Match-specific preparation of the pitch, ground assessment and recommendation services, development of training programs, and services that involve emergency troubleshooting, are a part of the contractor and consultant functions.
Future plans of networking include social media, attending the IPL ground staff meetings, connecting with the current curators, promotion of work posts through social media and professional profiles in the field, exposure by volunteering deserving the local matches.
International Cricket Board Positions
Cricket Australia ground staff, England and Wales Cricket Board, Caribbean cricket board as well as associate member nations development opportunities are available overseas. International positions require high level of international certificates, such as IOG or GMA qualifications, 3-5 years of experience, the use of English language, valid passport with availability to travel, and ability to adjust with different cultural set up with good understanding skills.
Educational Institution Cricket Ground Jobs
The employment opportunities at university and college level comprise the sports ground manager jobs, cricket coaching support staff jobs, ground maintenance supervisor jobs, and student training programs coordinator jobs. The jobs in the category of a non-governmental school include youth cricket facility manager jobs, coaching support specialist, tournament organization support, and the role of communicators between the parents and the students.
Modern Challenges in Pitch Curation (2025)
The cricket pitch curator profession is facing unprecedented challenges in the modern era, requiring constant adaptation and skill development to meet the emerging demands.
T20 Format Pitch Preparation Challenges
The T20 cricket has transformed the practice of pitch curation. According to cricket experts, the wicket is a jigsaw puzzle to get it right in regard to T20. Contemporary curators have to navigate between entertainment and competition, through the development of the pitches that stimulate the boundaries, and at the same time keep bowlers engaged, controlling the situation with the shorter boundaries and larger-sized bats, as well as preventing one-sided, batting presentations.
Back to back match demands that you have to prepare pitches with less recovery period between the games, impact of consecutive high intensity matches and to maintain the standards especially within the tournament period. Dew factor management is predicting and preparing against the effect of dew in the evenings, preparation of the pitch to cater to day and night matches, and giving dew forecast to match officials.
Drop-in Pitches vs Traditional Pitches
Since the emergence of drop-in pitches, new dedicated opportunities are being generated with special set advantages such as uniform quality across stadiums, less cancelled matches because of weather factors, perfect time to set up and train in controlled conditions, and the fact that they can be used by multi-purpose stadiums.
The skills required by the curators these days incorporate being conversant with the principles of modular pitch construction, transportation and installation standards, quality control in various venues, and ability to forward planning and logistics management. Opportunities to specialize in career have been created in drop-in pitch construction specialist, transportation and logistics coordinator, multi-venue quality control manager and technology integration specialist.
Weather & Climate Change Impact
The instability in weather is set to challenge through the occurrence of more severe weather conditions, shifting of seasonal weather conditions to demand ahead-of-time weather monitoring systems as well as development of emergency or contingency plans. Adaptive vocation tools are to invest in weather monitoring tools, build rapid drainage systems, use alternative grass in the different climatic conditions, and prepare program schedule flexibility.
Technology in Modern Pitch Curation
Digital Tools Incorporation includes soil moisture sensors and monitoring agencies, weather prediction software and applications, electronic description and reporting systems, and video analysis used in studying the behavior of the pitch. The new technologies can be listed as drone monitoring of ground conditions, the use of AI to predict pitch condition, a high-tech irrigation automation system, and curator training based on virtual reality.
Famous Indian Pitch Curators & Success Stories
Learning from successful cricket pitch curators provides valuable career insights and inspiration for aspiring professionals in the field.
Sunil Chauhan: HPCA Chief Curator
An example of the modern day successful curator is sunil Chauhan the head curator at Himachal Pradesh Cricket association whose career is a testimony of how he rose and ended up being considered as the most successful curator. He began working as a groundsman at a local cricket club and finished his BCCI Level 1 qualification in 2015. He was promoted to the post of assistant curator and became head curator of HPCA in 2019 within the short interval of two years.
His most important milestones are the management of international matches at Dharamshala, adoption of water conservation methods & 30% reduction in water consumption, training of more than 15 junior curators, through their training programs and winning of acclaim in terms of new pitch preparation technologies. His professional life illustrates the value of lifelong education and improvement of skills, establishment of good contacts with personnel and sport officials, creativity in a usual approach, and spiritual guidance of aspiring professionals.
Mohan Singh Pitch Curator
Mohan Singh was a very renowned Indian pitch curator who was the chief curator in the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Having been born in Uttarakhand and died at the early age of 45, Singh was a committed professional who very unfortunately died a few hours before the T20 World Cup match between Afghanistan and New Zealand on the same ground he was serving.
Singh has cricketing background as he became a member of the Punjab Cricket Association in Mohali where he was a ground supervisor in the year 1994. He followed a training as a curator in India in a special training program and then went to Abu Dhabi in September 2004, to spend the next 17 years to hone his profession at one of the best cricketing venues.
Being the chief-curator, Singapore would have to organize pitches which played many prestigious international matches, some of which are very crucial T20 matches. His professional knowledge made the playing surfaces be of international standards hence supporting competitive and fair cricket matches. The memory of colleagues about him was that he was a person who used to stay in contact with them regularly and who was devoted to his job.
The Abu Dhabi Cricket issued statement in appreciation of Mohan to the region with regards to candor to cricket. His untimely death came as a bolt to the cricket fraternity and it happened when it was supposed to be one of those ordinary days to get a world-class pitch ready. Singh left behind a legacy in all the memorable matches that have been played on pitches he diligently tended because of his knowledge and passion to the game he loved.
His is a history of the unsung heroes who had opportunities to create the high moments in cricket, and his dealing with it has made sure that the players could perform and display their talents on the best prepared surfaces.
Career Progression from Groundsman to Curator
A career ladder generally goes by a pattern of structure. The 0-2 years include the groundman or assistant positions that receive 15000-25000 INR per month. The experience period 2-5 years promotes to junior curator and certified at 25000-40000 rupees. The period 5-8 initiates senior curator positions on a state level with an income of 40,000-60,000 INR. After year 8, head curator and consultant positions earn over 60,000 INR+ a month.
The accelerated growth strategies involve specialization in a high demand region like T20 or drop-in pitches, networking with professional association, undertaking further certification and training as well as documentation of and sharing novel practices within cricket fraternity.
Lessons from Experienced Curators
Success models among senior curators have common elements such as initial enthusiasm towards the game of cricket and readiness to learn, make investments through education and certification, develop reputation through good work and a track rule, an adjustment to new cricket formats and demands, and the need to maintain professional relationship within industry. Such patterns prove the fact that pitch curating can be accomplished only with technical competence and skillful networking.
Step-by-Step Career Roadmap
Here’s a practical how to become pitch curator roadmap that provides clear milestones and realistic timelines for career development.
Phase 1: Basic Groundskeeping Skills (6-12 months)
The foundation building stage would include learning the fundamentals of cricket, various formats of the match, the varieties of grass and the basics of soil science, working on basics involved in groundskeeping of local cricket clubs and connecting with the current ground staff and the curators. The 4-6 months period is devoted to the acquisition of skills by volunteering to local matches and tournaments in cricket, acquiring knowledge of equipment operation (mowers, rollers, watering systems), weather patterns and their effects on grounds, and starting to record learning and experiences.
The last stage of skills focus is attending part-time or seasonal jobs in groundskeeping, applying to certification courses at BCCI whenever they become available, as well as maintaining volunteer activities for matches of increased importance, and accumulating a portfolio of ground maintenance projects that reveal progressive proficiency.
Phase 2: BCCI Certification (3-6 months)
The preparation phase involves monitoring the BCCI website for course announcements, preparing application documents and payments, studying recommended reading materials, and connecting with course alumni for insights and advice. During the course completion month, focus entirely on attending the full certification program, concentrating on both theoretical and practical components, networking with fellow participants and instructors, and documenting learning for future reference.
Post-certification application activities include updating resumes with new certification credentials, applying for junior curator positions, continuing skill development through practice, and seeking mentorship from experienced curators who can provide guidance and career advice.
Phase 3: Gaining Experience (1-2 years)
The initial year as a junior curator means taking any lowly positions offered by the state associations the aim is to learn the tricks of the trade under senior curators, be offered voluntary opportunities and earn a name among the employees that one is trustworthy and a quality employee. In year two, the specialization of skills is to be introduced through the identification of areas of interest (T20 or international matches, specialized training, establishing first steps in leading smaller projects), and the need to think about advanced certification is to be an option of career growth.
Phase 4: Advanced Certifications & Specialization
The ways of improving career are pursuing the BCCI Level 2 certification of senior positions, being certified internationally as IOG or GMA in international possibilities, special training in drop-in pitch or dedicated format, and teaching or training certification that will allow education jobs.
Leadership development has entailed mentoring of junior groundsmen and curators and giving back through industry publications, industry forums and speeches at cricket ground management conferences, and the innovation of practice together with the dissemination of knowledge to the wider curator fraternity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pitch Curator Careers
What qualifications are needed to become a pitch curator?
To become a pitch curator, you need minimum Class 12th education preferably in Science stream, BCCI Level 1 Curator Certification which is mandatory for professional roles, physical fitness for outdoor work in various weather conditions, basic understanding of cricket rules and match formats, and age typically between 18-35 years for entry-level positions. Other desirable qualifications must be earned through diploma of Agriculture, Horticulture or Sports Ground Management and must have previous experience in groundskeeping that would exhibit practical expertise in turf management.
How much do pitch curators earn in India?
Pitch curator salaries in India vary significantly by employer and experience level. BCCI jobs offer between 35-70 thousand rupees per month with match allowances whereas IPL jobs offer 3,00,000-15,00,000 rupees per two months. The ranges of amount paid to state associations are 25,000-50,000 a month, to the private clubs 20,000- 40,000 a month and to educational institutions between 18,000-35,000 a month. There is also the extra income in match-day theoretics, extra time and remuneration provided by consulting services, which draw substantial increment to the total income.
Is BCCI certification mandatory?
Yes, BCCI certification is mandatory for most professional pitch curator jobs in India. Level 1 is the minimum condition to be offered a position with all BCCI-affiliated ground work, position with state cricket associations, franchise and IPL, international match appointment. Career success in the field of curatorship is practically non-existing unless there is a certification which means that it is definitely a required protocol by any person who would want to take a career as a curator seriously.
