CUTTACK: The fifth one-day international between India and Australia was officially called off without a single ball being bowled after a formal inspection by the umpires on Saturday.
The Orissa Cricket Association had given up hopes on Friday only and announced the dates of ticket refunds as there was no let up from rain for five days because of a low pressure formation in the Andhra-Telengana region.
Umpires Nigel Llong, S Ravi and C Shamsuddin inspected the ground at 11 a.m. as there was some sunshine after five days of incessant rains but with the outfield still soggy and damp patches at several places, the duo officially abandoned the match.
“After inspection umpires in their report submitted that the outfield is not fit for play and no play is possible,” OCA secretary Asirbad Behera said.
Both the teams, who are put up in state capital Bhubaneswar, did not turn up at the venue as only the match officials came to make the announcement.
Anticipating that the match would not be possible, no spectator turned up even as tickets for the 45,000-capacity stadium was almost sold out.
This was the second consecutive match to be abandoned due to rain — both in the East Zone — as the Aussies continued to lead 2-1 in the seven-match bilateral series.
Winning the series has now become more difficult for India who have to win both the remaining matches in Nagpur (October 30) and Bangalore (November 2).
Later making a formal announcement, OCA secretary Asirbad Behera said: “Pitch is fit to play however the outfield is still wet and not fit and the umpires announced it at 11.15 p.m. With deep regret, I announce the cancellation of the match.”
“We knew it from yesterday but as per the ICC guidelines we had to wait for the umpires’ inspection on the match day.” (PTI)
