IND vs SA 4th T20I: Lucknow T20 Between India and South Africa Abandoned; Match Called Off for the First Time in History Due to Fog
IND vs SA 4th T20I: Lucknow T20 Between India and South Africa Abandoned; Match Called Off for the First Time in History Due to Fog
The much-anticipated fourth T20I between India and South Africa, scheduled at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on 17th December, ended in disappointment as weather conditions forced the match to be called off. Team India, coming off a commanding win in the third T20I, was eager to seal the series in front of their home crowd. On the other hand, South Africa faced a do-or-die scenario, needing a win in Lucknow to stay alive in the series. However, thick fog disrupted the plans of both sides, changing the dynamics of the contest.
The match was slated to begin at 7 PM, with the toss set for 6:30 PM. Yet, dense fog led to repeated delays. Umpires inspected the field conditions six times between 6:50 PM and 9:25 PM, but the visibility remained unsafe for play. Ultimately, the officials had no choice but to abandon the match, prioritizing player safety over the series schedule.
The series so far has been a rollercoaster. India took the lead by winning the opening T20I in Cuttack. South Africa responded in the second match in New Chandigarh, leveling the series at 1-1. India then dominated the third T20I in Dharamshala, giving them a golden chance to wrap up the series in Lucknow. For the visitors, a victory in the fourth match was crucial to staying competitive. With the Lucknow match called off, South Africa has now been granted an unexpected reprieve, while India must wait for the fifth T20I to secure the series.
According to the match regulations, a minimum of five overs per side was required for a game to be considered official, with the cut-off time set at 9:46 AM. Despite hopes that conditions might improve, the persistent fog forced the umpires to announce the cancellation at 9:30 AM.
This unexpected turn has altered the series scenario. India remains in a strong position and cannot lose the series outright, but their chance to clinch it a match early has slipped away. Meanwhile, South Africa has a renewed opportunity to level the series in the final T20I, keeping their hopes alive.
