The much-anticipated fourth T20 International between India and South Africa at the Ekana International Cricket Stadium in Lucknow ended in disappointment as the match was called off without a single ball being bowled due to dense fog and poor visibility. Following the abandonment, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) has issued a major update regarding ticket refunds, bringing relief to thousands of fans who had turned up hoping to watch the contest.

The match officials waited for several hours on the scheduled evening, hoping for an improvement in conditions. However, persistent fog blanketed the stadium, making visibility unsafe for players, officials, and broadcasters. With conditions failing to improve even by the cut-off time, the umpires officially abandoned the match, and no toss could take place. As a result, the game was declared a no-result, leaving the five-match T20I series situation unchanged.

Soon after the abandonment, concerns grew among spectators about ticket refunds. Addressing these concerns, the UPCA announced that full refunds would be issued to all ticket holders, as the match was abandoned without any play. The association clarified that since not even a single delivery was bowled, fans are entitled to a complete reimbursement of the ticket amount.

According to the UPCA, fans who purchased tickets online will receive their refunds automatically through the original mode of payment. These refunds are expected to be processed within a few working days, and ticket holders have been advised to keep an eye on their registered email and bank statements for confirmation messages from the ticketing platform.

For spectators who bought tickets offline, the refund process will be conducted manually. Such ticket holders will need to visit designated counters at the Ekana Stadium on specified dates, carrying their original tickets along with a valid identity proof. They will be required to fill out a refund form and provide bank details to facilitate the transfer of funds. The UPCA has assured that the process will be smooth and transparent.

Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified that it is not directly responsible for ticket refunds in this case. As per standard procedure, ticketing and refunds fall under the jurisdiction of the host association, which in this case is the UPCA. The board, however, expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to fans due to circumstances beyond control.

The abandonment was a major setback for cricket lovers in Lucknow, many of whom had been eagerly waiting to watch the Indian team in action. Thick winter fog has been a recurring issue in North India during this time of the year, often affecting sporting events and travel schedules.

With the Lucknow match washed out, attention now shifts to the final T20I of the series, where both teams will look to finish the contest on a high note. For fans in Lucknow, while the evening ended in frustration, the confirmation of full ticket refunds has at least offered some consolation after a foggy and disappointing night.