Smog Forces IND vs SA T20I Cancellation; BCCI Scheduling Under Fire

• The 4th T20I between India and South Africa in Lucknow was called off due to dense smog and poor visibility at Ekana Stadium.
• Lucknow's Air Quality Index (AQI) was above 400, raising serious concerns about player welfare; Hardik Pandya was seen wearing a mask.
• BCCI's decision to schedule matches in North India during peak winter months (November-December) is under scrutiny due to historical pollution and cold issues.
• Other northern venues like Dharamsala and New Chandigarh also experienced poor AQI and challenging cold conditions for players.
• Questions arise over BCCI's planning, lack of reserve days, and failure to consider afternoon starts or alternative venues in western/southern India.

Why It Matters: BCCI's winter scheduling in North India questioned after Lucknow T20I cancelled due to severe smog.