The fourth T20 international cricket match between India and South Africa was officially abandoned on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025, due to what officials cited as “excessive fog” at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. The decision came after multiple pitch inspections by match officials, who ultimately determined that playing conditions were unsafe for competition.
The scheduled toss at 13:00 GMT never occurred as umpires continued to monitor conditions throughout the afternoon before calling off the match approximately three hours later. The abandonment raises significant questions about scheduling and environmental factors affecting international sports events in northern India during winter months.
Adding to concerns about playing conditions, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya was observed wearing a protective mask during warm-up exercises on the pitch prior to the abandoned match. This visual evidence coincided with air quality readings showing particularly hazardous conditions in Lucknow, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching approximately 400 around the scheduled start time—a level classified as posing serious health risks to all individuals exposed.
Despite the visible pollution concerns, the official statement from cricket authorities specifically cited fog as the sole reason for the cancellation, avoiding any direct reference to air quality issues. The series now moves to its decisive final match with India leading 2-1, setting up a crucial encounter scheduled for Friday in Ahmedabad, where environmental conditions are expected to be more favorable for play.