That old adage that 'everyone's a critic' can feel like it applies directly to any of us occasionally.

However, turf professionals can often feel that intense scrutiny more keenly than most with their handiwork constantly up for judgement by the public, players, commentators and management.

And that magnifying glass becomes even more focused when you are in charge of a top-level sporting arena. Then the criticism can take on an international dimension!

With media attention, everyone can become an expert in professional surface maintenance. Finger pointing and blame for anything even perceived as less than perfection, can become quite vitriolic. Which will eventually get to even the most thick-skinned and confident of professionals.

That seems to certainly be part of the case with Tom Parker's resignation, who it was reported this past week, has left his post as Head Curator of the Sydney Cricket Ground after 20 years.

Tom gave an interview to Fairfax Media, which Cricket.com.au reported, where he expressed his frustration with criticism and increased speculation around state of Test pitches which he has faced during his tenure at the SCG.

Tom is quoted as saying, "I always said I'd do this job until I don't want to do it anymore and it sort of got to that point.

"The SCG is like a fishbowl with everyone looking in. Everyone is an expert. The players today, they're different to what it was it was 10, 15 years ago.

"Everyone's expectations are well and above reality."

Tom went on to say, "It's very hard to win an argument against elite sportspeople. You've got someone who is the best in the world in whatever code it is say something, everyone listens, and they'll listen to you last.

"In years gone by the administrations or the players themselves were probably a bit more understanding of the needs of what we had to do."

Part of Tom's frustration is the lack of responsibility taken by players and management if things don't go their way. Blaming the surface for a poor performance is a lot easier and diverting than individuals holding their hands up and admitting they played badly.

"It's always the blame game," he is quoted as saying, "and it's never their (the players') fault.

"That can wear you down after a while and you think 'I don't need that in my life."

And who would?

Of course there's always going to be pressure and scrutiny at the top level of groundsmanship in any sport. That's part of the job. It's when it becomes relentless and the easy go-to excuse for poor results that it becomes an issue.

And whilst of course, turf professionals don't expect public thanks every single time they prepare the perfect stage for such incredible drama and entertainment - but once in a while would be appreciated!