Cricket fans expressed significant disappointment following the abandonment of the India vs. South Africa T20 international in Lucknow, which was called off without a single ball bowled due to dense fog and smog. Responding to the backlash, BCCI vice president Rajiv Shukla assured that future international cricket schedules will prioritize weather conditions and air quality. The decision to host matches in North India during winter had already been a point of contention, and the Lucknow washout amplified these concerns. Shukla acknowledged the widespread disappointment in an interview, stating that extensive preparations were in place, but the match had to be canceled due to poor visibility. He confirmed that inspections continued until the last possible moment before the official cancellation. The match was initially slated for a 7 pm start, but persistent low visibility led to multiple delays and inspection rounds by match officials before the contest was ultimately abandoned around 9:30 pm. The air quality in Lucknow had been recorded in hazardous levels throughout the evening, raising serious questions about player safety and the comfort of spectators. Shukla recognized that the period between mid-December and mid-January consistently poses significant challenges for cricket in northern India, emphasizing that this will be a key consideration for future scheduling. He highlighted the availability of diverse venues across India as a benefit for logistical planning. During the delays, Shukla was observed on the field engaging with match officials, appearing concerned about the visibility issues. He pointed out that air pollution is a widespread problem affecting the National Capital Region and parts of Uttar Pradesh, directly impacting on-field visibility, especially for fielders attempting to track the ball or judge high catches. Fans took to social media to voice their frustrations, questioning the lack of contingency plans and feeling let down by what they perceived as poor planning, particularly after traveling to the stadium and enduring the cold, polluted conditions.
