Curator & Ground In-Charge

Role summary Afghanistan Cricket Board is seeking experienced Curators for its cricket grounds and academies in selected provinces. Ground Curators – Paktika and Baghlan: Responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and overall management of cricket grounds, wickets, practice areas, and outfields, ensuring they are maintained to a high professional standard for training and matches. Academy Curators – Balkh, Maidan Wardak, and Badakhshan: Responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and management of cricket academy playing surfaces, wickets, practice areas, and related facilities, ensuring they are suitable for player training, development, and matches. The Curator will have practical responsibility for pitch preparation, turf and grass management, irrigation, mowing, rolling, fertilization, equipment maintenance, and general upkeep of the assigned facility. The Curator will also guide ground staff and coordinate with relevant ACB staff to ensure the playing surfaces and facilities are maintained to the required standards. Duties and responsibilities Prepare and maintain all playing surfaces, including match pitches, practice areas, and outfields, as per the direction of the Chief Curator and Lawn Care Expert. Construct and prepare different types of wickets in line with professional standards and fixture requirements, ensuring compliance with ICC regulations. Plan and execute turf management activities such as fertilization, irrigation, drainage, mowing, rolling, and weed control. Monitor pitch health and recovery; take core samples, diagnose turf conditions, and apply appropriate treatments for diseases and pests. Oversee seasonal renovations, including reseeding, top-dressing, and other recovery tasks within the allocated budget. Operate, inspect, and maintain light and heavy ground maintenance equipment, ensuring all tools are safely stored, regularly serviced, and fit for purpose. Manage the setup and upkeep of match and practice infrastructure including nets, posts, sight screens, and protective covers. Supervise daily ground operations, including debris removal, pitch marking, and sight screen placement. Manage and supervise ground staff and laborers, ensuring effective work distribution, task completion, and adherence to safety protocols. Ensure health and safety compliance in all ground-related operations, including the use and storage of chemicals, pesticides, and heavy machinery. Prepare and submit daily, weekly, and monthly reports on ground and academy operations to the relevant department. Track and manage the upkeep of all ground and academy equipment and assets. Monitor ground and academy income and expenditures, identifying cost efficiencies and process improvement opportunities. Supervise and ensure contractor work aligns with safety standards and organizational expectations. Job requirements High School Diploma is required, Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or a related field is preferred. Minimum 3-4 years of experience in grounds maintenance or working as a curator, preferably in a sports or cricket environment. Strong understanding of turf management, pitch preparation, and maintenance practices. Knowledge of safety regulations related to the handling and application of chemicals and hazardous substances. Proficiency in operating/maintaining a wide range of ground care equipment and tools. Ability to train and guide junior staff and ground workers. Good physical fitness and stamina to perform outdoor and labor-intensive tasks. Sound knowledge of cricket rules, formats, and pitch requirements.