Following the abandonment of the fourth T20 International between India and South Africa in Lucknow due to heavy fog, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has addressed the concerns regarding ticket refunds and the scheduling of matches in North India during winter. The match, held at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, was called off without a single ball being bowled, leaving fans disappointed and raising questions about the suitability of hosting matches in the region during this time of year.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that the responsibility for processing ticket refunds lies with the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA), the host association for the Lucknow fixture. According to the BCCI's established refund policy, spectators are generally entitled to a reimbursement of the ticket price, excluding any applicable fees, if a match is cancelled or abandoned before the first ball is delivered. Saikia emphasized that all ticketing matters are handled by the state association, with the BCCI primarily granting hosting rights.
The abandonment of the match also sparked a broader debate regarding the BCCI's scheduling of matches in North India during the winter months, a period often characterized by dense fog, poor air quality, and reduced visibility. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla acknowledged these concerns, stating that the board would review its scheduling policy for matches held in North India between December 15 and January 15. This review will assess the feasibility of shifting matches to South or West India, where weather conditions are typically more conducive to cricket during this period. Shukla admitted that domestic matches are also being affected by fog.
The issue has also drawn political attention. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has been vocal about the situation, suggesting that matches could be hosted in South India, where air quality and visibility are generally better. Tharoor specifically pointed out the stark contrast in air quality levels between Lucknow and Thiruvananthapuram, advocating for the latter as a more suitable venue.
Saikia acknowledged that while the BCCI had taken measures to reschedule games due to smog in the past, such as swapping Test matches between Kolkata and New Delhi, the situation in Lucknow was unforeseen. He stated that the board did not anticipate such severe fog conditions so early in December, as this type of weather is more commonly expected in January.
The abandoned Lucknow T20I has raised serious questions about the BCCI's approach to scheduling matches in North India during the winter. The board's commitment to reviewing its policy and considering alternative venues indicates a willingness to address these concerns and prioritize the interests of players and fans alike. The outcome of this review could lead to significant changes in the future allocation of matches, potentially reshaping India's winter cricket map.
