Chaos erupted at Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium in Odisha as cricket fans rushed to secure tickets for the second ODI between India and England, resulting in stampede-like scenes. Some people were found unconscious, while others struggled to maintain their footing amid the overcrowded ticket counters.
The lack of adequate crowd management led to widespread disorder, with irate locals blaming the administration for poor planning and insufficient facilities. Frustrated fans criticised the absence of basic amenities, such as drinking water, and the failure to establish proper exit routes, which further worsened the situation as tensions flared.
Thousands of cricket enthusiasts began assembling near the stadium on Tuesday night, hoping to secure their tickets. Long queues had formed by early Wednesday morning, with some fans even spending the night outside to ensure they didn’t miss the chance to see their favourite cricketers, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, in action.
This match marks the first time in five years that Kohli and Rohit will play at Barabati Stadium. Their last appearance in Cuttack came in an ODI against the West Indies in 2019, where Kohli was named Player of the Match in India’s victory.
When offline ticket sales began at 9 AM on Wednesday, the rush quickly spiralled into disorder. As word spread about ticket availability, the situation worsened, prompting complaints from locals about poor management. Several local media reports criticised the Odisha Cricket Association for failing to handle the ticket distribution efficiently.
Recognising the severity of the situation, the local police, under DCP Jagmohan Meena’s leadership, swiftly took control. Multiple police platoons were deployed to manage the crowd and maintain public safety. Authorities are now working to streamline the ticketing process to prevent further disruptions.
Officials have urged fans to remain calm and patient while purchasing tickets, emphasising the need in order to ensure everyone’s safety. The excitement is understandable, as this match marks Cuttack’s first international fixture in nearly three years—the last being a T20I against South Africa in 2022.
“The entry and exit of people will be regulated through four designated gates, with personnel stationed to manage security and sanitation,” Cuttack Deputy Commissioner of Police, Jagmohan Meena, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
