After embarrassing blackout, OCA faces crucial test ahead of IND-SA T20 clash at Barabati stadium in Cuttack

As India prepares to take on South Africa in a high-profile T20 clash at the historic Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, on December 9, all eyes are on the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) to ensure the match goes off without a repeat of past technical failures.

The stadium previously made headlines on February 9 when a floodlight malfunction during the second ODI between India and England plunged the venue into darkness for 35 minutes, exposing critical gaps in infrastructure and contingency planning. 

With lessons learned from that incident, OCA faces the challenge of delivering flawless arrangements for one of the season’s most anticipated fixtures.

Reminder Of The February Faulty Lights

On February 9, during the second ODI between India and England at Barabati Stadium, a floodlight near the clock tower failed when the Indian team was 48/0 in 6.1 overs in their 305‑run chase. The stadium plunged into darkness, forcing a halt for about 35 minutes. 

The problem was traced to a generator malfunction. Though a backup generator was on standby, the switch-over was delayed, reportedly because a parked team bus blocked access to the backup generator.  The disruption sparked embarrassment for the host association, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), and led to a show‑cause notice from the state government demanding an explanation and corrective measures. 

What OCA Should Learn Before Dec 9?

Backup Systems Must Be Genuinely ‘Ready‑To‑Use’

The February incident showed that having a backup generator is not enough if logistical issues (like vehicle parking) prevent timely use. OCA must ensure that all backup generators are immediately accessible and staff are trained to switch over without delay.

Test & Monitor Floodlights And Backup Power Well Before Match-Day

Floodlights and all associated electrical infrastructure must undergo repeated, real‑time load and redundancy testing days before the match. According to reports, the stadium lighting had been tested for five days prior, yet the failure occurred. 

Crowd Safety, Fire Safety And Backup Contingency Need Holistic Review

Past issues went beyond lights, crowd management and unauthorised entry added chaos. Ahead of a marquee IND‑SA match, expecting a huge turnout, OCA must ensure robust crowd control, clear evacuation routes, functioning lighting and backup power for emergency services, and fire safety compliance.

Transparent Accountability, Public Report & Timetable For Upgrades

Given the public embarrassment and official notices, OCA should work with state and central cricket boards to publish a clear remediation plan what repairs or upgrades are to be done, timelines, and verifiable safety checks. This will rebuild trust among fans and teams.

Preparations Ahead Of Dec 9 Clash

State and OCA officials have reportedly taken note. The Chief Minister has asked for ‘flawless arrangements’ including reliable lighting, security, emergency services, crowd control, parking, plus traffic and fire safety. 
OCA secretary has reportedly committed to installing additional generators and new software-based monitoring to ensure that if a tower fails, the backup kicks in immediately. 

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Stakes Are High, No Room For Repeat

The February blackout was more than an inconvenience; it underlined serious gaps in infrastructure readiness, logistics and contingency planning. With a high-profile T20 match on the cards, the OCA must treat December 9 as a make-or-break moment: ensuring proper power, lighting, safety and crowd management, else the embarrassment will be magnified on a bigger stage.