Galle stadium's 130 ground staff swiftly cover pitch in under five minutes

After the conclusion of a Test match at Galle International Cricket Stadium, Manjula oversees a 130-strong groundstaff tasked with shielding the field from sudden rain. The team comprises 16 permanent staff, 10 specialists brought in from Hambantota for international fixtures, and daily hires paid between 2,500 and 4,000 LKR per day. By monitoring cloud formation over the Indian Ocean near Galle Fort, they anticipate showers and, on signal, deploy 28 heavy covers—each over 650 kg—to the pitch, square, run-up and the rest of the ground within five minutes.

Over 300 rubber tyres are rolled out to anchor the tarps against wind, and removal is performed methodically to keep water away from the grass. Four functional Super Soppers are then used to dry the outfield, ensuring play can resume quickly. The coordinated effort has kept the venue free of interruptions despite frequent rain during the series.