### Fog Disrupts Cricket: Lucknow T20I Cancellation Sparks Controversy Over Air Quality Data The fourth T20I match between India and South Africa, scheduled for December 18, 2025, at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, was abruptly canceled due to heavy fog and poor air quality. This incident has ignited a heated debate regarding the accuracy of air quality data in the region, as conflicting reports emerged following the match's cancellation. The state government has cautioned against relying on private air quality apps, urging the public to trust calibrated government monitoring stations instead [https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/lucknow-news/after-fog-stumps-cricket-debate-rages-over-correct-aqi-data-in-lucknow-101766085870702.html]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Match Cancellation Details** - The match was called off without a ball being bowled due to dense fog, marking a rare occurrence in international cricket history [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/cricket/exclusive-bcci-to-take-strict-measures-after-india-vs-south-africa-4th-t20i-abandoned-due-to-fog-article-153311036]. - Umpires conducted multiple inspections before ultimately deciding to cancel the match at 9:30 PM local time [https://www.dunyanews.tv/index.php/en/cricket/924346-fourth-t20-between-south-africa-and-india-abandoned-due-to-fog]. 2. **Public and Political Reaction** - Fans expressed frustration over the cancellation, questioning the scheduling decisions made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) [https://www.m9.news/sports/lucknow-t20i-cancelled-due-to-fog-fans-angry]. - The incident prompted discussions in Parliament, with opposition members highlighting the hazardous air quality, which was reported at an AQI of 410, categorized as 'severe' [https://scroll.in/latest/1089384/lucknow-india-vs-south-africa-cricket-match-abandoned-due-to-fog-opposition-says-it-was-smog]. 3. **BCCI's Response and Future Considerations** - BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla announced that the board would review its scheduling practices, particularly for matches held in northern India during the winter months [https://www.india.com/sports/bcci-faces-criticism-after-india-vs-south-africa-4th-t20i-in-lucknow-abandoned-due-to-heavy-fog-8234350]. - Refunds for spectators who attended the match were confirmed by Shukla, acknowledging the disappointment caused by the cancellation [https://www.republicworld.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-bcci-vp-rajeev-shukla-confirms-refunds-for-spectators-after-lucknow-t20i-abandoned-due-to-excessive-fog]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Air Quality Index (AQI) Readings**: - The AQI in Lucknow was reported at **410**, indicating severe pollution levels at the time of the match [https://scroll.in/latest/1089384/lucknow-india-vs-south-africa-cricket-match-abandoned-due-to-fog-opposition-says-it-was-smog]. - **Historical Context**: - This incident marks only the second time in international cricket history that a match has been abandoned due to fog, the first being in Faisalabad, Pakistan, in 1998 [https://www.firstpost.com/firstcricket/lucknow-cricket-match-abandoned-due-to-fog-history-faisalabad-1998-13960814.html]. ### Conclusion: A Call for Change in Scheduling Practices The cancellation of the fourth T20I between India and South Africa due to fog and poor air quality has raised significant concerns about the scheduling of cricket matches in northern India during winter. 1. **Immediate Findings**: - The match was canceled due to severe fog and hazardous air quality, leading to public outcry and political debate. - BCCI is under pressure to reassess its scheduling practices to prevent future occurrences. 2. **Future Implications**: - A potential shift in match venues to southern or western India during peak winter months is being considered to avoid similar disruptions in the future [https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/well-review-scheduling-matches-between-dec-15-jan-15-north-527]. In summary, the incident not only highlights the challenges posed by environmental factors in sports but also emphasizes the need for proactive measures in scheduling to ensure the safety and satisfaction of players and fans alike.