Jacintha Kalyan is poised to etch her name in the annals of Indian cricket history by becoming the first female pitch curator for the 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL). Her expertise in the intricacies of cricket ground design and analysis will be invaluable for the success of the WPL tournament.
Jacintha’s journey towards this milestone began humbly, starting as a receptionist at the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). Over time, her fascination with the art of setting up cricket pitches and grounds grew, leading her to pursue and pass the rigorous Curator Examination administered by the BCCI last year.
Throughout her tenure at the KSCA, she has played a pivotal role in crafting pitches for various domestic, international, and IPL matches, working hand in hand with her male counterparts.
Kalyan said: “There will be discussions about male domination, and people may comment on me performing what is traditionally seen as men’s work. However, what matters to me is consistently executing my responsibilities to benefit the game and ensure the players are content with the wickets and ground conditions.”
Reflecting on her groundbreaking achievement, Jacintha acknowledges the inevitable discussions surrounding gender dynamics in her field and anticipates potential remarks regarding tasks traditionally associated with men. Despite the challenges, she remains undeterred in her commitment to her craft and the advancement of women in cricket.
In discussing her family’s reaction, Jacintha shares the support she receives from her husband, Kalyan Kumar, upon learning of her new role in the WPL 2024. Additionally, she proudly recounts her son Sharath Kalyan’s admiration for her accomplishments, noting how he eagerly shares her achievements with others, often prompting them to search her name online to learn more about her journey.
This unwavering familial support serves as a source of strength and encouragement as Jacintha continues to break barriers and inspire future generations of female cricket enthusiasts.
Kalyan concluded: “My husband, Kalyan Kumar, was aware of my dedication at the KSCA, but he never anticipated that I would become India’s first female curator. Now that I have achieved this milestone, he is overjoyed. Beyond him, my son, Sharath Kalyan, takes immense pride in my accomplishments. When someone inquires about me, he simply Googles my name and shares articles that highlight my journey”
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