India's chase of 305 runs against England in the second ODI was unexpectedly interrupted due to a floodlight failure at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on Sunday. The incident occurred while the home team was comfortably positioned at 48 runs without loss, necessitating the players to exit the field.

The initial indication of trouble arose around 6:15 PM when the lights briefly flickered, yet play continued as Saqib Mahmood was about to bowl. Shortly after the first delivery of the sixth over, one of the eight floodlight towers, located near the clock tower, experienced a complete failure.

Although visibility was not significantly affected, regulations require optimal lighting conditions. As a result, the players had to leave the field.

Captain Rohit Sharma, displaying impressive form, had scored 29 runs off 18 balls, including three sixes and a four, while Shubman Gill was not out on 17 runs from 19 deliveries.

As officials rushed to address the situation, the crowd of 45,000 took the initiative, transforming the stadium into a dazzling display with thousands of phone flashlights lighting up the stands. Graeme Swann, the former England spinner who was broadcasting at the time, humorously commented, “Someone informs them that they cannot sustain this for too long. Their phone batteries will eventually deplete.”

A report from PTI indicated that the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) faced significant off-field challenges as well, struggling to manage the large influx of spectators, which resulted in chaotic scenes at the stadium entrances.

To restore order, police resorted to lathi charges, while unauthorized individuals breached the press box, further complicating the situation.

With Cuttack hosting its first ODI in over four years, the evident logistical shortcomings raised serious questions regarding the stadium's readiness.

India chasing 305

Earlier in the day, England was dismissed for a total of 304 runs in 49.5 overs, with Joe Root leading the scoring for his team with 69 runs. Opener Ben Duckett also played a significant role, contributing 65 runs for the visitors. For the home side, Ravindra Jadeja stood out among the bowlers once again, achieving impressive figures of 3 wickets for 35 runs in his 10 overs.

Additionally, Varun Chakaravarthy made his One Day International debut in the current match, claiming the first wicket by removing the formidable Phil Salt early in the innings. He concluded his spell with figures of 1 wicket for 54 runs.

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