The fourth T20 International match between India and South Africa was abandoned on Tuesday due to dense fog and poor visibility in Lucknow. The match was scheduled to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium but could not start because of severe weather conditions. Cold temperatures, thick fog, and mist covered the city from morning onwards, making it impossible to conduct the game safely.
Seven Inspections, No Improvement in Weather
Match officials carried out a total of seven inspections between 6:00 pm and 9:25 pm to assess whether play could begin. The inspections took place at 6:00 pm, 6:50 pm, 7:28 pm, 7:57 pm, 8:29 pm, 8:58 pm, and finally at 9:25 pm. However, there was no significant improvement in visibility during this period. After the final inspection, on-field umpires Rohan Pandit and K N Anantha Padmanabhan decided to call off the match in the interest of player safety.
Series Status and Next Match
With this match being abandoned, India continue to lead the five-match T20 series 2–1. The final T20I of the series will now be played in Ahmedabad on December 19, where both teams will look to finish the series on a strong note.
Ticket Refund Announced
Following the cancellation, an announcement was made over the stadium’s public address system informing spectators about ticket refunds. Fans who had purchased tickets for the match will receive a full refund, which will be credited back to the original payment method used during booking.
Disappointment for Fans
The abandonment of the match was disappointing for cricket fans who had gathered at the stadium despite the cold weather. Many were hoping the fog would clear in the evening, but conditions remained unfavorable throughout the night.
The focus now shifts to Ahmedabad, where clearer weather is expected for the series decider.
