Lucknow T20I refunds announced after fog forces washout
Lucknow T20I refunds announced after fog forces washout
UPCA confirms full refunds for online buyers and box-office refunds for offline tickets after the Lucknow T20I was abandoned due to dense fog and smog at Ekana Stadium.
The fourth India-South Africa T20 International at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow was abandoned due to a thick layer of fog and poor air quality, with six inspections failing to improve visibility. The match was originally scheduled to start at 7 pm but was called off around 9:30 pm, leaving fans without a ball bowled and prompting a swift refunds plan.
Online ticket holders will receive refunds back to their original payment method, and refunds notifications will be sent to the registered email addresses. Prem Manohar Gupta, UPCA’s secretary, stressed that fans should monitor their emails for further updates and confirmations.
Offline ticket purchasers can collect refunds from the box office at Gate No. 2 of the Ekana International Cricket Stadium on December 20, 21, and 22, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. They must bring the original physical tickets and a copy of government ID for verification, submit the bank details, and complete a refund form. Once verification is complete, refunds will be processed directly to the bank accounts.
The setback has sparked broader conversation about scheduling winter cricket in North India amid pollution concerns, with critics urging a reassessment of venue choices and timing. The incident also drew attention to player welfare, as some players were seen taking precautions, including wearing masks during warm-ups. The series now shifts attention to the fifth and final T20 in Ahmedabad.
Fans are left to look ahead to the decider while awaiting the promised refunds, hoping for a smoother experience and clearer communication in future matches.
