The fourth T20 International between India and South Africa at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow was abandoned on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, without a ball being bowled, due to excessive fog and poor visibility. This unfortunate event has ignited concerns and discussions about scheduling international matches in North Indian cities during peak winter months.

The toss was initially delayed from its scheduled time of 6:30 PM, and umpires conducted multiple inspections, including a final check at 9:25 PM, to assess visibility by observing the floodlights from the batter's crease. Ultimately, the match was called off at 9:30 PM local time as conditions failed to improve. The umpires, after several inspections, deemed the conditions unsafe for play.

The abandonment has particularly disappointed a large number of fans who turned up at the stadium. Spectators found it hard to see across the stadium due to the smog. Despite the disappointment, the result ensures that India remains 2-1 ahead in the five-match series.

Adding to the concerns was the hazardous air quality in Lucknow, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reportedly crossing 400. India's Hardik Pandya was seen wearing a face mask, highlighting the concerns for player safety and welfare.

The decision to abandon the match has once again focused attention on the BCCI's scheduling choices, particularly the decision to host matches in North Indian cities like Lucknow, New Chandigarh, and Dharamsala during the winter season when pollution levels are typically at their worst. The schedule included cities such as New Chandigarh, Dharamsala, Lucknow, Ranchi, Raipur, Visakhapatnam, Cuttack, Ahmedabad, Guwahati and Kolkata during November and December.

There was a change to the Indian squad for the fourth game, with Axar Patel ruled out due to illness and replaced by Shahbaz Ahmed. Shubman Gill was also sidelined due to a toe injury sustained during training and it is uncertain whether he will be available for the fifth T20I. Jasprit Bumrah, however, was present in Lucknow after missing the third match for personal reasons.

With no reserve day scheduled, both teams will now focus on the fifth and final T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. India leads the series 2-1.