The Odisha government has sought further explanation from the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) regarding the floodlight failure during the India-England cricket match at Barabati Stadium on February 9.
Despite the OCA’s response on February 19, the government expressed dissatisfaction and demanded additional clarification by March 1, said State Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Suryabanshi Suraj in the state assembly.
The incident, which led to one of the six floodlight towers malfunctioning mid-match, drew widespread criticism and tarnished the state’s reputation on the global stage. This marked a significant embarrassment for the state, especially as it was hosting an international one-day match after a five-year gap.
The opposition criticized the government over the mismanagement, calling for greater accountability. In response, the minister stated that any negligence or fault identified in the OCA’s explanation could lead to recommendations for action against OCA officials to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Furthermore, the government reviewed spectator safety, food security, and other arrangements prior to the match but was not responsible for the technical operations transferred to the BCCI days before the event.
Barabati’s return to hosting international matches was highly anticipated and celebrated. However, this mishap has left a stain on Odisha’s cricketing reputation, overshadowing what could have been a memorable occasion.
