Floodlight Failure Puts Odisha Association Under Spotlight, Explanation Sought

New Delhi: The Odisha government has asked the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) to provide an explanation regarding the disruption during the second ODI between India and England at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. A floodlight malfunction during India’s 305-run chase on Sunday evening led to a 35-minute stoppage, sparking widespread outrage against the event organizers.

With India at 48 for no loss in 6.1 overs, the floodlight tower beyond the long-on boundary began to flicker before completely shutting down. This caused a delay, prompting India’s openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, to walk off the field, followed by the England team as well. The match was halted for a 35-minute stoppage as officials worked to resolve the issue.

According to OCA sources, the generator connected to one of the six floodlight structures at Barabati Stadium malfunctioned, leading to a near 35-minute stoppage during the second ODI. This caused a temporary halt in play, disrupting the match as both teams were forced to leave the field while the issue was addressed.