Decoded: What puts the IND vs SA 4th T20I in Lucknow at risk of getting called off?

The fourth T20I between India and South Africa faced an unexpected disruption as heavy fog at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow delayed the toss. Originally scheduled for 6:30 PM, the start was postponed due to dangerously low visibility due to thick fog. While an inspection was set for 6:50 PM IST, officials expressed concerns that the match might be abandoned entirely. Another inspection will take place at 7:30 PM IST which will give some clarity on the match. Given that Lucknow is prone to such thick fog during this time of year, and artificial lighting cannot cut through the haze, the chances of the weather clearing sufficiently for play are considered low.

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Toss for IND vs SA 4th T20I delayed due to fog

Should the game eventually proceed, the playing conditions are expected to be grueling, particularly for the bowling side. Heavy dew is anticipated to make the outfield wet and the ball difficult to grip, adding another layer of complexity to an already weather-impacted fixture. For India, the stakes are high, currently leading the five-match series 2-1, a victory in this game would officially seal the series win.

Shubman Gill rested for 4th T20I against South Africa

Adding to the drama, Team India encountered a massive setback prior to the match as their vice-captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the fourth T20I due to injury. Gill apparently suffered a toe injury during pre-match training and is also doubtful for the fifth T20I. In his absence, Sanju Samson is expected to return to the opening slot, a position where he previously found immense success by scoring three centuries before being moved to the middle order to accommodate Gill’s return during the Asia Cup.

Head-to-Head

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other 31 times in T20Is. While India have won 18 matches, South Africa have clinched 12 victories in these 31 matches. Notably, one match ended without a result.

Pitch report:

"It's a chilly and foggy wintery evening. It's nice and cold. 66m square boundaries, 77m down the ground. Mixture of red and black soil. Generally expect it to be good, hold quite nicely and have good bounce. The pitch is very cold to the touch, difficult to keep moisture out of the pitch because of the season. Therefore, the expectation is that it won't as high scoring as it normally is. Should expect around 150-160. There will be lateral movement, might get help from the surface when the dew sets in," Deep Dasgupta and Pommie Mbangwa analysed the pitch.