Why is the Toss for 4th T20I Delayed in Lucknow?
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Synopsis
The fourth T20I between India and South Africa faces a toss delay due to heavy fog in Lucknow. With the next inspection set for 6:50 PM, concerns mount about the visibility and the match's viability. Discover the implications for the series as both teams prepare for this pivotal clash.
Key Takeaways
- The toss for the fourth T20I has been delayed due to fog.
- Next inspection is scheduled for 6:50 PM.
- India leads the series 2-1.
- Jasprit Bumrah participated in warm-ups after missing a match.
- Shubman Gill is likely to be replaced by Sanju Samson.
Lucknow, Dec 17 (NationPress) The toss for the fourth T20I clash between India and South Africa has been postponed due to severe fog at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. The next evaluation by the match officials is scheduled for 6:50 pm. An update from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on their ‘X’ account stated, “Toss in Lucknow has been delayed due to excessive fog. Next inspection at 6:50 PM.”
Earlier on Wednesday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an orange alert for ‘very dense fog’ impacting 13 districts across eastern and central Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, a yellow alert was issued for dense fog across 27 districts from the eastern to western regions of the state.
The fog at the stadium has become so thick that spectators can barely see the stands at the opposing end. With fog expected to worsen, there are rising concerns about the feasibility of the match. This event marks the first time Lucknow is hosting a T20I game in December.
Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa mentioned during the live broadcast that postponing the match could be counterproductive, as the fog is likely to thicken as the evening unfolds. Fortunately for India, star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah participated in the warm-ups before the match, after missing the third T20I in Dharamsala due to personal reasons.
However, vice-captain Shubman Gill appears to be ruled out due to a foot injury, with Sanju Samson likely stepping into the playing eleven. India currently leads the five-match series 2-1, with two matches left to play, and they are considered favorites to secure the series if they can clinch a victory in Lucknow. For that to happen, the match needs to proceed despite the biting cold and foggy conditions.
India is leading the series 2-1. After winning the first T20I, India lost the second match but bounced back to win the third, taking the lead in this five-match series.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the unpredictable weather conditions in Lucknow that are affecting the highly anticipated T20I match. While the fog poses challenges, it also adds a layer of unpredictability to the game. Fans and players alike are hoping for a resolution that allows the match to proceed smoothly.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the toss delayed?
The toss was delayed due to excessive fog at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, impacting visibility.
What time is the next inspection scheduled?
The next inspection by match officials is set for 6:50 PM.
How does the fog affect the match conditions?
The fog has reduced visibility significantly, raising concerns about the feasibility of conducting the match.
Who is expected to replace Shubman Gill?
Sanju Samson is likely to replace Shubman Gill, who is ruled out due to a foot injury.
What is the current series status?
India leads the five-match series 2-1, needing to win this match to secure an overall series victory.
