The second ODI between India and England saw an unexpected disruption as a floodlight failure repeatedly halted play, affecting India’s momentum. Chasing 305 runs to secure an unassailable 2-0 series lead, the Indian openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, got off to a flying start, racing to 48 runs inside the first six overs.
Just as India appeared to be in complete control, a floodlight tower at the stadium malfunctioned, forcing an abrupt pause in the game. The issue occurred not once but thrice, leading to growing frustration among the players and fans alike. Despite efforts to resume play, the recurrent failure forced officials to call in technicians for repairs.
Amid the confusion, Rohit Sharma was seen having an intense discussion with the umpires, but the match officials ultimately decided to send the players off the field. The interruption proved to be an untimely setback for India’s dominant start.
Embarrassed over the floodlight failure leading to the disruption of the game for around 30 minutes, state sports minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Sunday said the government will seek an explanation from Odisha Cricket Association (OCA).
Suraj, who was also present along with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other senior ministers at the stadium, said, “An explanation will be sought from the OCA over the floodlight glitch. It happened despite taking all precautions and making elaborate prior arrangements by the OCA.” OCA secretary Sanjay Behara, however, said each floodlight tower was attached with two generators.
Under pressure with questions over form and mounting retirement speculations, skipper Rohit Sharma silenced it all with a vintage 32nd century, firing India to a dominant four-wicket series-clinching victory over England in the second ODI here on Sunday.