The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) earned a colossal Rs 11,769 crore just from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. The cash-rich body earns revenue from multiple sources, including a Rs 8,744 crore deal for media rights. Despite all this, we still fear having washout games in the country and seeing blow dryers in use during a mega IPL final!
IND vs BAN 2nd Test to start pressure?
Take an example of the ongoing second Test between India and Bangladesh in Kanpur, where only 35 overs were bowled on Day 1 and the entire Day 2 was called off due to incessant rain. While rain didn’t make any cricketing action possible on Saturday, it brought up a burning question: Why can’t BCCI have an efficient drainage system in all cricketing grounds around the country? And when we talk about the efficient drainage system one superb example is the SubAir system at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Chinnaswamy’s SubAir system should be a trendsetter
The SubAir system is a revolutionary drainage technology that has proven its worth at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. This high-tech system utilizes a powerful 200-horsepower machine to drain an astonishing 10,000 litres of water per minute. This rapid drainage capability allows the field to be ready for play within minutes after a downpour.
The system operates by using sand instead of traditional soil as the base. Sand does not retain water as effectively as soil, allowing for rapid drainage. Additionally, the SubAir system helps to aerate the field, promoting healthy grass growth. This dual functionality ensures that the pitch is always in optimal condition for play.
BCCI should take a note
Installing the SubAir system requires significant effort for sure. Firstly, the entire field needs to be dug up and replaced with sand. Moreover, it is a strenuous process, given that the field will be unavailable for hosting games for a significant period. Also, the soil varies in India, making it a challenge, a massive one. Adapting the system to different soil conditions might be necessary as well. However, the benefits are substantial. The system not only ensures minimal disruptions due to rain but also provides teams with confidence in their match preparations.
Despite these challenges, the BCCI should prioritize the installation of the SubAir system or similar technologies in the majority of cricket stadiums in India. This investment will not only enhance the cricketing experience but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of Indian cricket. By ensuring minimal disruptions due to rain, the BCCI can attract more viewers, sponsors, and revenue.
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