The 4th T20I between India and South Africa at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow (December 17, 2025) was officially abandoned without a ball being bowled. While fans are used to rain delays, this match was called off due to excessive fog and hazardous smog, making visibility impossible for players.
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1. Why was the 4th T20I Called Off?
The match in Lucknow faced unique weather challenges. Despite six inspections by the umpires, the game was abandoned at 9:30 PM IST.
Dense Fog: A thick blanket of fog enveloped the stadium, making it impossible for fielders to see the ball under floodlights.
Severe Pollution: The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lucknow crossed 400 (Hazardous). Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya was even seen wearing a surgical mask during the warm-ups.
Player Safety: With poor visibility and toxic air, the umpires and match referee prioritized the health and safety of the athletes.
2. History of Abandoned Matches in Cricket
While rain is the most common culprit, matches being called off for other reasons is rare but not unheard of.
Fog and Bad Light
2025 Lucknow (IND vs SA): First major T20I in India abandoned entirely due to fog/smog.
Domestic Precedents: Fog frequently disrupts Ranji Trophy matches in North India (Delhi, Meerut, Rohtak) during December and January, often leading to "No Result."
Bad Light: Numerous Test matches (like the 2023 Sydney Test between Australia and SA) have seen entire days lost to bad light, though rarely is an entire 5-day match washed out solely for light without rain.
Unusual Reasons for Abandonment
3. Shubman Gill’s Fitness Update
There is disappointing news for fans hoping to see the vice-captain in the series finale.
Injury Status: Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the remaining T20Is (both the 4th and 5th matches).
The Reason: He suffered a toe injury during a net session on the eve of the Lucknow match. Reports indicate he was hit by a ball while batting and was seen hobbling in pain.
Previous Struggles: This comes right after Gill recovered from a neck injury (disc bulge) that kept him out of the Test and ODI legs of this South Africa tour.
Will he play in Gujarat? No. Since the final T20I is on December 19 in Ahmedabad (Gujarat), the medical team has decided not to risk him, especially with the New Zealand series and the T20 World Cup 2026 preparations on the horizon.
4. What Happens Next?
Series Standing: India leads the 5-match series 2-1.
The Final Showdown: The 5th T20I will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Friday, December 19, 2025.
Replacement: Sanju Samson or Abhishek Sharma will continue to lead the top order in Gill's absence.
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