The fourth T20I of five match series between India and South Africa has been abandoned at Lucknow without a ball being bowled due to thick fog. Poor visibility made play impossible throughout the evening. With India already leading the series 2-1, the washout ensured that the hosts extended their unbeaten run in T20I series to 15. The series will now be decided in the final match in Ahmedabad on Friday.

Umpires focus on visibility, not AQI

Lucknow’s Air Quality Index stayed in the early-to-mid 400s, which is considered hazardous. However, umpires focused mainly on visibility. They carried out six inspections before taking a final call. During each check, one umpire stood near the square boundary and tried to spot the white ball held up close to the pitch. Conditions did not improve, and officials called off the match at 9.26 pm.

Winter cricket in north India raises concerns

Cricket in north India during winter has often drawn criticism. Fog and pollution regularly disrupt matches. In the past, the BCCI had planned a Test match for South Africa in Delhi. It later changed the schedule and hosted the Test before Diwali instead. Air quality usually worsens after Diwali, making conditions unsafe later in the season.

Tour reaches final stretch

South Africa’s tour of India will end on Friday in Ahmedabad. The visitors dominated the Test series and won it 2-0. They also pushed the ODI series to a decider, which India won 2-1. In the T20Is, India recorded two strong wins to take a 2-1 lead. The fog in Lucknow, however, denied them a chance to wrap up the series early.

Bumrah’s return boosts India

Jasprit Bumrah rejoined the Indian team in Lucknow after missing the previous match for personal reasons. His return strengthens India ahead of the final game. The decider will take place in Ahmedabad, which is Bumrah’s hometown.