IND vs ENG 2025: Water sprinklers used during second ODI as Cuttack heatwave intensifies

India are taking on England in the second ODI, at the renowned Barabati Stadium, in Cuttack. The game started with the visitors choosing to bat first. The Jos Buttler-led side capitalized on the powerplay to the fullest as the Indian bowlers struggled to get wickets early.

Besides the match, the spectators had their own share of discomfort due to the intense heat gripping Cuttack even before the summer season is yet to take its course in the country. However, the stadium organizers understood the plight of the crowd who were sitting without a shelter. They acted in quick time and unleashed water sprinklers to suffice them.

Check out the viral image from Cuttack Stadium here:

England made solid start after winning toss in second ODI

Speaking of the game, after electing to bat first, England openers Philip Salt and Ben Duckett put up an 81-run stand for the first wicket in 10.5 overs. At the end of 31st over, England were 176/3 with Joe Root and Jos Buttler on strike. Duckett had previously set the tone for his team scoring 65 runs off just 56 balls laced with 10 boundaries. His innings kept the run rate around 7.5 until he departed.

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In good news for Cuttack fans who are witnessing an international game in their city for the first time since 2022, star India batter Virat Kohli was back in the playing XI. Kohli was struggling with his knee ahead of the first ODI and was replaced by Shreyas Iyer. But as India captain Rohit Sharma joined Buttler at the toss, he announced that the 36-year-old is back which led to a huge roar in the crowd. 

“It was a good performance in the first game. That's what I loved about. The energy was very good despite not being on the field for a while. It was superb to watch after losing two wickets. Shreyas prides himself on that intent and attitude and not to forget the contributions of Shubman and Axar as well. Black soil pitch, not sure. Maybe play on the slower side, that's what I expect. Two changes, Jaiswal makes way for Virat. Kuldeep is rested so Varun makes his debut,” said Rohit at the toss.