Here's why IND vs SA 4th T20I match likely to be called off in Lucknow

The much-awaited 4th T20I between India and South Africa in Lucknow is facing an uncertain fate as persistent fog and poor visibility continue to disrupt proceedings at the Ekana Stadium.  Despite multiple inspections by the umpires, conditions have shown no significant improvement, making it increasingly likely that the match will be called off. Here's a timeline breakdown of how the weather has played a major role in delaying the match:

 

6:32 PM: Toss Delayed Due to Fog 

IND vs SA

 

The match faced its first delay when the toss was postponed due to thick fog at the Ekana Stadium. An initial inspection was set for 6:50 PM, and the players waited in anticipation, hoping for the fog to clear. However, the weather conditions in Lucknow had been foggy throughout the day, with the air quality index (AQI) being categorized as hazardous, leading to concerns about visibility and safety. 

 

7:08 PM: Umpires Return for Another Inspection 

With no sign of improvement in the fog, the umpires returned to the field to assess the visibility conditions. The fog was so thick that fans could barely see the opposite stands from their seats, raising doubts about whether the match could go on.

 

7:23 PM: Visibility Still Poor 

IND vs SA 4th T20i update

 

At 7:23 PM, the situation remained unchanged, with the fog still limiting visibility. The opposite stand remained indistinguishable, prompting further concern about whether play could start. An inspection was set for 7:30 PM, but with no positive signs, the possibility of play seemed slim.

 

7:30 PM: No Improvement in Conditions 

IND vs SA

 

As the next inspection arrived, it became evident that conditions had not improved. The players, who had been practicing on the field earlier, were forced to return to the dressing room. Given the weather forecast and the challenges posed by the thick fog, it became clear that the game was unlikely to proceed.

 

8:05 PM IST: No Improvement After Latest Inspection, Next Evaluation at 8:30 PM 

Following the 20:05 IST inspection, no positive developments were reported. The pitch remains covered by a large cloth rug, with signs of dew visible on the buggy-cam tyres. The umpires have scheduled another inspection at 8:30 PM in hopes of determining whether play can resume.  

8:32 PM IST: Umpires Conduct Another Inspection, No Decision Yet 

At 20:32 IST, the umpires conducted another inspection of the playing conditions. Despite hopes for improvement, there was no official decision made after the inspection. Rajiv Shukla was seen speaking to the umpires. The next inspection is now scheduled for 9:00 PM, as uncertainty continues. 

Final Inspection Scheduled at 9:25 PM 

Visibility at 9:24 PM IST

 

The umpires have confirmed that a final inspection will take place at 9:25 PM local time. With no significant improvement in visibility, the match's fate hangs in the balance. Fans are left waiting anxiously for a clear decision to determine whether play will commence or not.  With no sign of visibility improving and the weather remaining foggy, it is highly probable that the 4th T20I between India and South Africa will be called off in Lucknow. The conditions are not only unsafe but have also made it impossible to conduct the toss or begin the match. The series, therefore, might see another postponement or cancellation, leaving both teams and fans frustrated by the weather disruptions.